In 2014 Downstage, Wellington’s first professional theatre, celebrates its 50th anniversary. While most anniversaries commemorate the past, Downstage is committed to celebrating the future.

Downstage is putting a call out to talented creatives to submit project proposals and budgets for works that will reflect and embody the celebration of the past meeting the future.

“We want you to show us what Downstage means to you, our audiences and the future of theatre in New Zealand,” says Downstage CEO Hilary Beaton. “We want you to think about the inspiring and recognisable facets of this theatre that shape and impact Wellingtonians.”

While projects should know no creative limits, off-site projects are encouraged. These projects should draw visibility and engagement with Downstage as a hub for people to interact, reflect, and join forces with Downstage for the future.

“Tell us why Downstage is important,” says Beaton. And on this auspicious anniversary, “Think about what contemporary performing arts will look like in the next 50 years!”

Expressions of Interest should be submitted to Hilary Beaton, at theatre@downstage.co.nz. Closing date for proposal submissions is 1 August 2013.