How it works

Submission Process

  • Submit your idea by filling in our online form. You will be asked for a brief description of your idea and any relevant images/ links you might have.
  • After the deadline, all submissions will be reviewed by a panel of industry professionals. Ideas are assessed based on innovation and potential. Feasible, promising ideas are selected to move forward.

If your idea is selected, you will receive the following:

  • Your idea will be added to a secure, private gallery accessible only to verified visitors.
  • You will be given a dedicated page, which you can review and update the information to ensure it accurately reflects your idea.
  • At this stage, expert advice in areas such as intellectual property, patents, and related protections can also be offered, should it be required.
  • This is then shared exclusively with the ABTT Industry Supporters Group (ISG), a network of companies with expertise in theatre and performing arts.

After the exclusive industry review period, ideas are published on the ABTT public website for wider visibility and promotion across the sector.

What You Could Receive:

  • Private gallery listing and professional visibility
  • Exposure to ISG companies and networking opportunities
  • Public promotion via the ABTT website
  • Potential collaboration with interested industry partners

Additional Recognition:

Some ideas may also receive:

  • A Certificate of Commendation
  • Two years of free ABTT membership

Idea of the Year

One idea will be selected to receive the ABTT VIP “Idea of the Year” Award. The winning submission will receive £1,500 in seed funding to support early-stage development or prototyping. It will also be showcased on the VIP Stand at the ABTT Theatre Show.

In addition to this high-profile presentation, the winner will benefit from ongoing support through the ABTT platform and its partner networks, with the potential for further development and broader industry recognition. Where appropriate, mentorship will be offered to help individuals take their ideas forward, providing guidance from experienced professionals across the sector.

Student Prize 2025

In 2025, we are excited to launch a new award category specifically for students, apprentices, and recent graduates. This category will run in parallel with the main VIP Award, following the same selection process, from initial submission and industry panel review to exclusive ISG exposure and public promotion.

The winning submission will receive £1,500 in seed funding to support early-stage development, as well as the opportunity to be showcased at the ABTT Theatre Show. This award recognises the importance of fresh perspectives and early-career creativity in shaping the future of theatre. It offers emerging talent the opportunity to share bold ideas, gain industry recognition, and play an active role in driving innovation in theatre production. Selected entrants may also be offered mentorship to help develop their ideas and navigate early career opportunities.

Who’s Eligible?

  • Open to anyone with an idea and the ambition to develop it.
  • The student and early-career category is open to current students, apprentices, and those who have graduated within the last two years.

SUBMISSION DEADLINE: 1st November 2026, 11.59 pm

Late entries will not be accepted.