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Expressions of Interest are now open for La Mama's Programs June to November 2026.
More details
We strongly encourage regional artists planning on putting in an application for Immerse (regional) to attend online.
IMMERSE
A deeply focused 12-week practice-led program for 16 mid-career writers ready to take their work to the next level. Building on PATHWAYS 2023, WRITING INTENSIVE 2024 and MOBILE CONNECT 2025, programs that revealed the power of peer exchange, mentorship, reaching beyond Melbourne, developing networks, skills, opportunities, and finding strength in a community of practice, IMMERSE is an opportunity to grow practice, deepen networks, and take the next bold step in theatre-making.
In 2026 IMMERSE partners with Arts Centre Melbourne’s New Writers Collective, offering shared guest artist sessions and theatre experiences, and Regional Arts Victoria, supporting regional artists to connect - broadening creative networks, peer exchange, and strengthening community across the sector.
Two fully subsidised streams run in parallel, meeting Monday evenings from 6-9pm from 1 June – 31 August culminating in a Pitching & Presentation Showcase at La Mama HQ connecting writers to producers, programmers and collaborators (online and in-person):
IMMERSE REGIONAL - 8 writers online from regional and remote Victoria:
o Weekly online development sessions (3 hours)
o Peer exchange with regional writers across Victoria
o 15 hours of 1:1 dramaturgical mentorship
o Access to the online Guest Series from the Metro program
o Subsidised theatre trips to both metro and regional performances
IMMERSE applications will be assessed by program alumni. For 2026 this will be Amarantha Robinson and Lyall Brooks. They will work with Artistic Director Caitlin Dullard and Pathways Manager Myf Powell for final selection. IMMERSE is facilitated by the La Mama staff and coordinated by Pathways Manager Myf Powell.
IMMERSE is fully subsidised to the value of $8000 per participant, and free to participants.
This opportunity is appropriate for playwrights who are mid-career but under-produced, or established artists and/or writers pivoting towards playwriting - with a strong story to tell - to get their work ready for presentation.
IMMERSE is supported by the John T Reid Trusts and the Cybec Foundation in partnership with Arts Centre Melbourne and Regional Arts Victoria.
For other applicants: the first CONNECT session will be for any applicants on 10 November (both in person at La Mama Courthouse and livestreamed).
2026 Applications Open
Apply to be programmed for PLAY (SCRATCH, EXPLORATIONS, IMMERSE), HOPE PUNK CLIMATE FESTIVAL, MELBOURNE FRINGE AT LA MAMA and CULTURAL CONSERVATION IN ACTION 2026.
