→OPPORTUNITIES

We’re looking for a new cohort of STAF Listeners!

We are seeking 4 artistic community members of Manchester and engage them to see new work and connect with the artists to write articles giving an overall view of the creative landscape and pressing themes of 2026/27. Also, where possible to investigate the artist’s journey to that presentation, their thoughts on how artist journeys could be best supported and improved and plans for their next work. The writings of the ‘Listeners’ will be published on the STAF website as blogs. You can read the blog posts by our 2025 Listeners here: Listening Programme 2025. 

Please apply using the link at the bottom of this page no later than Wednesday 27 May.

Who are we looking for?

  • Artists at any stage that already have a connection with a certain artform and have curiosity to reflect on the creative landscape we are in

  • Art forms we’re seeking are: Poetry, Dance, Queer Performance and Drag and Community Arts

  • Enthusiasm to view a curated series of work planned with STAF

  • Work with Programme Development Lead to decide the watch list

  • Happy to connect with the artists who created the work where possible to have a casual chat about their journey

Deliverables

  • Share early thoughts via social media when attending a show or event 

    • Just responses to the topics being presented in the work. 

    • This would be posted by the STAF account. 

  • Write a 1000-word approx opinion piece, to be shared on STAF's website and social media channels, drawing upon all the work seen and discussions with the artists

Payment

  • £175 fee (plus £25 fee for onboarding)

  • STAF will cover cost of tickets and travel

Timeline

  • Online onboarding session - Review previous examples and understand the ethos of STAF and the project. Get to know the other ‘Listeners’

  • Chat through suggestions of what to view with Programme Lead

  • Attend the planned events sending across a short thought for social media

  • Connect with the artist presenting when available and appropriate.

  • Write your blog post and notes will be given by STAF team for redrafting

  • Blog is posted on STAF website and socials

  • For each art form (approx publishing date):

    • Poetry - 30th June

    • Community Arts - 22nd July

    • Dance - 17th August

    • Queer Performance and Drag - 10th September

APPLY TO BE A LISTENER HERE