Who is eligible to apply for the program?

We welcome applications from LGBTQIA+SB teenagers aged 15-19 who are eager to explore their storytelling skills and connect with the queer community.

How do I apply for ‘Stories from the Heart’? 

Applications will open at the end of 2024… keep your eyes peeled!

I really want to apply but I don’t really have any ideas… Can I still apply?

Yes! All you need is a seed of an idea to apply - and the idea can be whatever you want! We aren’t looking for fully fleshed out ideas. Don’t worry too much as this is what the workshops are for! To brainstorm, bounce ideas, experiment and discover!

What is the time commitment for ‘Stories from the Heart’? 

There are two workshop weekends (4 days all up) that run from 10am to 4pm. Plus, a full rehearsal day + performance day.

Is there a fee to participate in the program? 

No, the program is entirely free for participants. We are committed to providing an inclusive and accessible experience for all LGBTQIA+SB teenagers. 

We also have a dedicated stipend provided to participants who may require help with travel and any other accessibility requirements for the duration of the program.  

Who will be our mentors for 2025? 

We are shaping this program around you! So whoever is selected, we will be choosing our mentors based around the participants. We want to make sure that if, for example, you’re a dancer, we have a mentor who is a dancer to help you! 

In the past, we’ve had some pretty amazing mentors: Zoe Terakes, Imbar Nassi, Laneikka Denne & Tommy Misa…
If you have a suggestion of who you’d like to be mentored by - let us know on your application form! There is a specific question on the application form for this.

What happens at the live performance?

The live performance is your chance to showcase your piece to a live audience of friends, family, queer community and industry. It will be a mix of wholesome and also getting your work in front of the game-makers in the Sydney Theatre and Arts Scene. 
It's a joyous and supportive celebration of your creative journey.

Can I participate if I'm not "out" or open about my LGBTQIA+SB identity? 

Absolutely! We understand the nuance and complexity around ‘coming out’ and that sometimes, it’s not for everyone. No matter where you’re at on your rainbow journey, we encourage you to apply!

It's really important to note that, while we won't promote you or your work within the workshops and performance without your consent, ‘Stories From The Heart’ is a public-facing program with a live performance outcome. This means we cannot completely control who sees or hears about the program.

Also, for legal reasons, if you’re under 16 we must have a signed form from your parent, guardian and/or responsible adult.

What happens if I experience mental health struggles?

This should not discourage you from applying. Like queerness, mental health is also a journey. Sometimes you can see things coming, sometimes they pop up from nowhere. ‘Stories From The Heart’ is working with a queer Wellbeing Support Artist to make sure we create a safe space for everyone. It is important to note however, none of us are social workers or mental health professionals. We are artists and our focus will be on making you the best queer artist you can be. If you have any questions or concerns about this please get in contact below.

One of our partners, Twenty10, who are a mental health support organisation specifically for LGBTQIA+SB people will be providing a peer support worker for every workshop session. So at any point throughout the workshop, you can go and have a chat with them. Plus, along with our Wellbeing Support Artist, we’re developing an After Care plan for participants so when the program ends, they don’t feel alone!

How can I contact the ‘Stories from the Heart’ team for more information?

If you have any additional questions or need more information, please don't hesitate to contact the Transmedium team at stories@transmedium.org 

Photo Credit: Natesha Somasundaram
Design: Kenney Designs