FAQ’s

Who is eligible to apply for the program?

We welcome applications from LGBTQIA+SB-identifying teenagers aged 15 to 19, based in NSW.

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

Absolutely! We understand that there is a lot of nuance and complexity around ‘coming out’ and that sometimes, it’s not for everyone. So you do not need to be ‘out’ or open about your LGBTQIA+SB identity.

However, this program is a public-facing one meaning that there is a live performance which welcomes a live audience. There will be thorough protocols around promoting the program online - in other words, we will not post anything about you or your work without your consent. But we cannot control who sees or hears about the program.

For legal reasons, we also require people under 18 years old to have a parent, guardian and/or responsible adult sign a form for participation. However, once again, we understand that this can be complicated for some people. We do not want this to deter you from applying so if this is you, please reach out to us at stories@transmedium.org and we will try to make it work!

What happens if I’m still figuring out my LGBTQIA+SB identity?

That is a-okay! This program is all about discovering our identities in a safe and celebratory space. You don’t need to have it all figured out. As long as you’re accepting and respectful of all LGBTQIA+SB identities, you’re welcome to apply.

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

Applications open on December 12th and close on Jan 9th 2025.

We understand application forms can be super daunting so if you wanna apply via a different format (video/audio/phone call or via email), please get in touch with us at stories@transmedium.org

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

Yes! All you need is the seed of an idea to apply – and it can be whatever you want! We’re not looking for fully fleshed-out ideas. Don’t worry too much; that’s what the workshops are for – to brainstorm, bounce ideas, experiment, and discover!

Can I participate if I have little or no experience in performing?

Yes! No prior experience is necessary. This program is designed to support beginners and help you develop your skills in a safe and encouraging environment.

What are you looking for?

The only constraint for this project is that your piece must be performed on stage in front of a live audience. What you do on that stage is completely up to you! It could a spoken word poem, a monologue, dance, performance art - literally anything! We don’t want to limit the content or form – we want to operate outside the box. It’s queer art! Let’s get experimental with it – the weirder, the better!

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

The program includes four full-day workshop weekends, running from 10.30 am–4.30 pm at ATYP. The workshops are divided into two weekends, spaced two weeks apart:

• Saturday, 8 February & Sunday, 9 February: Workshop Weekend #1 (12 hours)

• Saturday, 22 February & Sunday, 23 February: Workshop Weekend #2 (12 hours)

Additionally, there is a tech/dress rehearsal day on Saturday, 8 March, followed by the performance day on Sunday, 9 March.

There’s also an optional opportunity to join the Sydney Mardi Gras Parade with Wear It Purple on Saturday, 1 March.

Where does the program take place?

All workshops and performances will take place at the Australian Theatre for Young People (ATYP). Address is: Eora Country, Pier 2/3, Suite 2/13A Hickson Rd, Dawes Point NSW 2000.

Is travel and accomodation covered?

No, we don’t have the budget to cover travel and accommodation. However, we do have funds allocated to support participants who live outside of Sydney or have accessibility requirements. If this applies to you, feel free to reach out.

Is there a fee to participate in the program? 

No, the program is entirely free for participants.

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. The performance takes place in ATYP’s Rebel Theatre and has a capacity of 180 seats!

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.

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, we’re developing an After Care plan for participants so when the program ends, they don’t feel alone!

Is the program wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the venue and program are fully wheelchair accessible. If you have any other accessibility needs, please reach out to us so we can accommodate them.

I’m a parent, what is the child safety policy for the program?

We take child safety very seriously. Our program adheres to the Australian Theatre for Young People (ATYP) Working With Children Policy (which you can check out here) to ensure a safe and supportive environment for all young participants.

• All staff and mentors involved in the program hold a current NSW Working With Children Check (WWCC).

• Our activities are guided by ATYP’s Code of Conduct, which emphasizes care, respect, and proactive measures to protect young people from harm.

• To support the mental well-being of participants, we also provide access to a trained mental health worker through our partnership with Twenty10.

If you’d like to learn more, feel free to reach out at stories@transmedium.org and we’ll be happy to answer any additional questions.

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