2013-14 Producer Development & Mentorship Program

Theater Resources Unlimited (TRU) is accepting applications for the Producer Mentorship and Development Program for 2013-14, a program designed to guide anyone producing a project through the steps of putting together an effective business plan, as well as help you to set and achieve attainable goals. Led by industry veterans and insiders, this year-long program encompasses the full scope of both the commercial and not-for-profit theatrical producer’s process, using a hands-on approach, on-site training, and a focus on practical application. In order to be eligible for the program you must join TRU as a member; to apply send an email inquiry to TRUMentor@gmail.com and TRU will send you detailed information and an application. If accepted into the program, the cost for the year is $100 (plus a $75 TRU membership fee). For more detailed information on the program visit www.truonline.org/PDMP2.htm

The Producer Development and Mentorship Program is comprised of two interactive divisions: Career Producers led by producer Michael Alden (The King’s Speech, Grey Gardens, Bridge & Tunnel, Bat Boy the Musical), and Self-Producing Artists led by producer-writer Patrick Blake (Play Dead, The Exonerated, In the Continuum). Traversing both groups are members whose focus is working in the not-for-profit realm; their program director is producer Patricia R. Klausner (Pippin, The Trip to Bountiful, Stick Fly, The Scottsboro Boys). The three program directors will guide participants through the year-long program meeting once a month, and will include a networking component along with seminar presentations led by industry veterans at site specific locations in Manhattan.

Whether in the early stages of development, working toward a staged reading or looking to produce a full commercial production, participants will leave the course with a ready-to-use, project-specific business plan. Participants will begin the program with a production goal in mind and will be guided through the many facets and phases of production and development including:

The Elements of a Successful Production - a top NY critic, a dramaturg and a producer will offer a unique and often neglected perspective on the definition of a successful production. Production Development - a lineup of notable development executives and artistic directors will cover the various development paths from page to stage. General Management and Budgets - a seminar with theatrical General Managers and staff, outlining the invaluable role and function of the General Manager including unions, talent and crew negotiations, bonds and budgets. The Legal Aspects of Production, an evening with experienced entertainment attorneys, offering an overview of the trials, tribulations and contracts a Producer must navigate. Marketing, Advertising and Public Relations - members of an A-level marketing and advertising firm will discuss conventional as well as out-of-the-box marketing, advertising and the vital role of social media. Asking For Money with a lineup of theater investors and producers, sharing the who, when, where and how of asking for money. Creating Your Business Plan, with a panel of industry experts, helping you build your blueprint for a successful production.