↑ stage ready south asia
@theleapbd
stage ready: south asia is an artist development programme created by the leap to support grassroots south asian musicians, enthusiasts, singers, and emerging new bands across yorkshire and the north west.
Deadline: 12 noon on Thursday 1st October.
about this programme
Stage Ready aims to bridge the gap between digital traction and professional live performance for South Asian musicians across the region.
Research carried out by The Leap demonstrates that many South Asian artists face systemic barriers that restrict progression from informal talent into professional practice. While many of these musicians build audiences on streaming platforms like Spotify and YouTube, South Asian artists remain significantly underrepresented within mainstream music infrastructure, industry leadership, national programming, and sustainable music careers.
what can we do?
Funded by Arts Council England’s “Supporting Grassroots Music” fund, STAGE READY: South Asia aims to provide targeted technical training, stagecraft coaching, professional branding, and industry connections to help artists transition onto major live stages and build sustainable, paid careers.
The programme brings together key music-sector partners, venues, and industry bodies to build a connected talent pipeline:
AP Global Entertainment: International artist and event management expertise.
Musicians’ Union (MU): Supporting fair access, rights, and industry representation.
Bradford Music Scene (BMS): Providing venue immersion, rehearsal spaces, and grassroots network links.
Bradford Eid Festival & Leeds Road Festival: Offering direct live showcase platforms and festival programming routes.
All Star: A community organisation specialising in creative industries, music technology, and media production.
what support do artists get?
Selected artists receive a structured programme to help them get ready for live stage performances:
Stage & Sound Coaching: Lessons on vocal projection, working with sound engineers, and managing stage equipment.
Venue Rehearsals: Practice time inside real music venues before performing in front of an audience.
Press & Marketing Kits: Professional photos, an artist bio, and a digital press kit (EPK) to share with event organizers.
Live Performance Slots: Guaranteed slots to perform live at local festivals (such as the Leeds Road Festival and Bradford Eid Festival) and music venues.
Ongoing Help for Everyone: Applicants who do not make the main group will still be connected to mentors and local music networks for future opportunities.
criteria and eligibility
For full details of this programme please download the Criteria and Eligibility document here ↗
As well as details of the programme this document also contains the application timeline.
application submission
Applications will only be accepted via this link: here ↗
The form will not accept input from more than one device; if you are working with other people on your application, you may find it easier to work from Microsoft Word and then copy and paste your answers into the form at the link above.
You will find a pro-forma of the application form here ↗
Your application must be submitted by 12 noon on Thursday 1st October.
If you have any other queries, please get in touch: shabz@the-leap.org.uk