Put on a musical with Phoenix!

We are looking for pitches for our May 2027 show!

Would you like to run a licensed musical with the Phoenix Players? We would love to hear from you!

The deadline to get in touch is 30th April 2026

Got any questions? Email phoenixplayersamdram@gmail.com

What are we looking for?

Phoenix is a friendly, fun, inclusive society that has been putting on shows in Dulwich and South Norwood since 1983. Find out more about us.

We are looking for a director or creative team with vision and creativity to pitch a show that will work for our friendly community of enthusiastic members. 

You do not need to be a professional to apply! You do need to be:

  • creative on a tight budget

  • able to motivate and organise a large group

  • keen to embrace our inclusive culture, policies, and special Phoenix community

  • comfortable adjusting your approach to constructive feedback 

Directing a musical in May 2027 would involve:

  • Running an audition process in January (with support from the Phoenix Committee)

  • Managing rehearsals every Monday through to show week (plus limited additional rehearsals on Thursdays and Sundays)

  • Leading show week, including a 4-show run Thursday to Saturday (the exact week is still being negotiated) at Stanley Arts in South Norwood

You would be supported throughout by an experienced and proactive committee. 

What type of shows would we consider for May 2027?

We are looking for pitches for a licensed musical. We usually put on shows that have previously been produced on Broadway or the West End (there will be separate application windows for other types of show later in the year). You can pitch any show as long as it’s available to licence and suitable for our group - check out our advice on what makes a good Phoenix show and get in touch if you have questions on what we would or wouldn’t consider. 

If you’re not sure what show to choose, fear not, we have suggestions! The Phoenix Committee would be particularly interested in hearing pitches on the following shows (in no specific order):

  • Big Fish

  • Calendar Girls

  • Honk!

  • Shrek

  • Sister Act

  • Sunshine on Leith

  • The Prom

  • We Will Rock You

  • Wind in the Willows

While these scripts are considered appropriate for the Phoenix Players, please note that none of these shows is ‘perfect’. Challenges range from finding appropriate casting for certain parts, to out-of-date language and jokes; from sensitive topics like bereavement, to managing performers carefully with nudity, or accent work. We think the challenges in these scripts are manageable with the right thoughtful, inclusive, creative team. You will have the opportunity to talk through your approach to challenges like this at the pitching stage. 

How do you apply?

1. Notifying

The deadline for letting us know you want to direct is 30th April 2026. When you’re ready, send an email to phoenixplayersamdram@gmail.com, telling us:

  • What show are you interested in pitching? (You can list more than one!)

  • Who is in your team? (You can apply as a team or individual)

  • How do you prefer to be contacted (email, whatsapp, or chat in person if you are in rehearsals with us already)?

You’re welcome to provide some more information about why you are applying, but you do not need to write a detailed pitch at this point - we just need the name of the show to proceed!

2. Reviewing

The committee will take a look at the show you want to pitch and get back to you in May.

This will allow us to flag anything we’d be particularly keen to hear about in your pitch. For example, the committee may note the script traditionally has a very limited role for the ensemble; with this feedback in mind you could then make sure your pitch explains how your interpretation will still give everyone room to shine. This gives you the best opportunity to make a good case for your show - and avoids you being put on the spot in the pitch. 

In the event that we think a show is not suitable for Phoenix, we may also suggest you pick a different show. We’ve added this stage so that potential directors don’t put a lot of planning into a pitch we can’t take forward.

3. Pitching 

Pitches will take place in June, usually by video call. This will involve a recorded chat with a small panel (around 3 people). 

We aim to make pitch meetings as friendly as possible - this is not Dragon’s Den! It’s a chance for us to hear more about what you want to do. You can expect questions like this: 

  • Tell us about your vision for the show.

  • Tell us about your directing and leadership experience. 

  • We are an inclusive group which prioritises fun for everyone in the company. How will you bring that to your show?

  • How will you make sure the full cast - particularly the chorus - is well-used during the show?

  • Tell us about how you will stage the show.

If there is anything we can do in advance to make pitching more comfortable for you, we’d be happy to talk through adjustments. 

What happens next?

The committee will aim to make a final decision at their meeting on 17th July.

If you are chosen to put on a show, we will start to discuss next steps from this point - you will have the rest of the year to build your team and work up a full production plan, budget and rehearsal schedule.