Freelancers Make Theatre Work (FMTW) has received a three-year funding package to expand its operations and strengthen support for freelancers across the UK performing arts sector. This development aims to improve working conditions and professional development for the freelance majority in theatre and related industries.

Freelancers Make Theatre Work (FMTW) has announced new funding, including £150,000 from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport via Arts Council England, alongside contributions from high-profile industry donors such as Lloyd Webber Theatres and Cameron Mackintosh Ltd. This three-year package will provide stability as FMTW develops a strategic plan running through 2029, with further fundraising planned to achieve longer-term goals.

Established during the Covid-19 pandemic, FMTW has focused on representing freelancers, offering practical support, and advocating for better working conditions. Freelancers currently comprise around 70% of the performing arts workforce, a significantly higher proportion than in the wider creative industries, highlighting their vital role.

A six-month consultation, backed by Arts Council England and involving freelancers and arts organisations, identified a demand for an expanded role. FMTW plans to engage deeply with theatres, producers, and organisations such as the Creative Industries Independent Standards Authority (CIISA) to ensure freelancers are fully represented in new workforce standards and support frameworks.

The organisation will also offer workforce insights to inform planning and collaborate on training and professional development initiatives. Its three-year programme addresses issues including fair pay, access and inclusion, anti-racism, career development, regional support, contracts, protections, and employer accountability.

The new funding will enable FMTW to move beyond its largely volunteer-led model by supporting a small staff team and expanding digital offerings and training provisions. This marks a significant step towards more robust and sustainable support for freelancers across the sector.

A spokesperson for FMTW said the funding will “benefit freelancers across the country” and provide a “firmer ground” to continue advocating for a fairer and more sustainable industry. Indhu Rubasingham, director and co-chief executive of the National Theatre, praised FMTW as “a crucial and important body” for the theatre ecology.

Freelance lighting designer Paule Constable highlighted the industry’s dependence on its 200,000 freelancers and the need for new ways of working outside traditional power structures. She described the funding as creating “exciting possibilities” to ensure freelance voices are “truly heard.”