Five dynamic Southwest artists set to thrive

Sam Parker, Exeter Northcott’s Artist Development Producer, says: “Offering tailored support to local artists is central to Exeter Northcott’s mission. This is not an ‘off the shelf’ package. Instead, we’ll be working closely with the Associates to ensure we’re giving them the right support and opportunities they most need.”

The Elevate Associates are:

Company Scheherazade

Founded by Maria Tarokh, Company Scheherazade creates dance productions, installations, and experiences that explore themes of identity and displacement. The company collaborates with global majority artists, blending contemporary and classical Persian dance styles to tell stories of the diaspora while fostering connections between dance, music, and sound.

Above. Maria Tarokh. Image: Company Scheherazade

Documental Theatre

A Devon-based company led by Lucy Bell and Naomi Turner. In 2023, they brought a workshop performance of Mary & the Matrons, an original musical featuring Makaton signing, to the Barnfield Theatre.

Above: Mary & the Matrons. Image: Documental Theatre

Estelle Buckridge

The founder and facilitator of Café Theatre Company creates fun performances in a social environment for participants over the age of 60.

Above: Estelle Buckridge. Image: Ralph Whitehead

Katie Villa

An Exeter-based theatre director, performer, and facilitator with over 15 years of experience. She is artistic director of Quirk Theatre, having co-written and directed their last eight shows, including Mary the Pigeon Who Never Gave Up and Rhia & The Tree of Lights. She has previously collaborated with Exeter Northcott on Failspace, an artists’ gathering that she co-hosts with the theatre.

Above: Katie Villa. Image: Rhodri Cooper

Squeeze Box

A transdisciplinary collective of live performers, facilitators, and artists who support the artistic vision and disabled-led practice of Hugh Malyon. Squeeze Box opens direct conversation on care as a universal experience through installation, performance, and workshop.

Above. Hugh Malyon. Image: Squeeze Box

The theatre has also reserved one associate artist slot for University of Exeter graduates to encourage early-career theatre makers to stay in the South West. 

It will hold a selection process in spring 2025 and announce the receipts later in the year.

You can find out more about the programme, and the associates themselves on Northcott Theatre’s website.