Creating opportunities through theatre: how Fund for Wales is supporting Papertrail
With support from a £2,000 grant from Fund for Wales, funded by players Postcode Lottery, the organisation has continued its work creating opportunities for Deaf, disabled and under-represented artists while helping make theatre more accessible across Wales.
A theatre performance can last a few hours, a workshop might take place over a single day, but the impact of creative opportunities can last much longer. That’s something Papertrail has seen first-hand over the past year.
With support from a £2,000 grant from Fund for Wales, funded by players Postcode Lottery, the organisation has continued its work creating opportunities for Deaf, disabled and under-represented artists while helping make theatre more accessible across Wales.
The funding contributed to Papertrail’s core running costs, helping the organisation strengthen its capacity and continue delivering an ambitious programme of creative work.
Among its achievements was Creative Stages, an innovative pilot programme that brought together British Sign Language interpreters and theatre directors to explore more inclusive approaches to theatre-making. Eighteen participants took part in the training, with many reporting increased confidence, new professional connections and practical skills they could take into their future work.
One participant described the experience as “life-changing”, explaining that it had helped them feel better prepared to integrate creative access into their work and advocate for Deaf communities.
Alongside this, Papertrail toured ‘A Visit’, an accessible theatre production that travelled to venues across Wales. Several performances sold out, while post-show discussions and educational workshops provided opportunities for audiences, students and industry professionals to engage with important issues connected to the criminal justice system.
The organisation also continued its Associate Artist Programme, supporting Wales-based artists through mentoring, professional development and creative experimentation. For many participants, the opportunity to develop ideas without immediate production pressures proved invaluable.
One artist reflected on how freelancing can often feel isolating and highlighted the value of feeling connected to an organisation that supported their development.
The grant supported important organisational milestones, including Papertrail achieving registered charity status and strengthening its governance, fundraising and long-term sustainability.
Looking ahead, the organisation plans to expand Creative Stages, develop new productions and continue creating opportunities for artists whose voices have historically been under-represented in the arts.
By supporting organisations like Papertrail, Fund for Wales helps ensure that creativity, talent and community insight can continue to flourish across Wales. We’re proud to be turning philanthropy into impact.
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