Applause’s Outdoor Touring Programme has made a genuine and lasting difference to outdoor artists, companies and the communities they serve, according to a recent report.
“It has made a huge impact, we have been able to create small-scale work with Applause’s support, that has gone on to tour more widely from it being part of the programme.”
The programme helps the creation and development of new outdoor touring shows each year and has invested more than £80,000 in artist commissioning over the last three years. Applause provides not only funding but advice and assistance to new and established artists to explore ideas, grow their practice and tour more widely.
Based on a survey of artists’ feedback from 2023-2026, the results also highlighted how artists have benefited by gaining knowledge and unlocking additional financial support for future development. These artists work across a broad range of outdoor performance including walkabout, puppetry, dance, street and interactive installations.
Applause Programming Lead Sally Lampitt, who produced the report using the findings, will be speaking at the upcoming National Rural Touring Forum about the results. Sally said: “What comes through most powerfully in the feedback is not simply gratitude for funding, but a deep appreciation for the way in which Applause works; with care, with trust, and with a genuine belief in the artists it supports. This has lasting effects on the whole outdoor touring sector.”
The programme is supported by Arts Council England as part of Applause’s National Portfolio delivery.
