Who we are
About
Opening up new space for creativity.
Who We Are
Magnetic North is an award-winning theatre company based in Edinburgh, Scotland. Founded in 1999, we celebrated our 25th anniversary in 2024.
We combine live theatre production with an artist development programme. We create original work inspired by our comprehensive programme of residencies and creative labs, with a particular emphasis on experienced and mid-career artists.
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How We Work
We are members of the Green Arts Initiative and are committed to reducing our environmental impact.
- Reduced emissions by 42% between 2018-2020
- No UK business flights policy
- Sustainable production practices across all our work
Transparent Working Culture
We maintain a published statement detailing fee levels and working models for artists and freelancers, ensuring transparency in how we work with our creative partners.
Our Policies
Our Team
Artistic Director
I am responsible for the artistic programme of the company. I work with the rest of the team to implement our programme of productions and artist development. I facilitate the company’s Rough Mix, Space/Time and Artist Employee programmes and work with writers, designers and other freelance artists to develop and create productions.
Contact me if:
- You are an artist (e.g. playwright, composer, visual artist) and want to know how we might support your development
- You are from an organisation interested in partnering with us on a project or residency
- You want to know more about any of the residencies we run.
Producer
I support the Artistic Director and the team with general management duties, working on touring and creative partnership opportunities, company development, governance and financial administration
Contact me if:
- You are interested in any aspect of partnership working with Magnetic North
- You have queries about any practical aspects of what we do.
Artist Development Manager
I lead on the co-ordination of Rough Mix and Space/Time, our development opportunities for artists. I also plan events and socials for our artists’ network and support the Artist Attachments.
Contact me if:
- You are an artist interested in how Magnetic North can help you
- You are interested in partnering with Magnetic North to deliver an artist development opportunity
- You have any other questions about our Artist & Project Development programme that is not answered on our website
Board of Directors
- Aditi Jehangir Partnerships Officer, Young Scot
- Mark Saunders (Chair) Director & Educator
- Nicholas Bone Artistic Director, Magnetic North
- Paula Van Hagen Freelance Producer
- lain Ross Chartered Accountant
Our Values
Our values are lived in all our interactions, all our projects, and all the relationships we foster.
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Exploration
We are dynamic and enquiring: we investigate how different art forms mingle and inform each other; we test best practice and stretch it further. We are fascinated by artists: their practice, their work, what they have to say to society, and how they can help change the world for the better.
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Responsiveness
We are outward-looking and horizon-scanning; we are artist-centred and trust in people and ideas; we avoid set routes and prescriptive directions; we provide the means to help artists find new destinations.
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Care
Care is core to our culture; we are kind and enabling; we listen to and take care of everyone we work with, including ourselves; we celebrate people’s full and wider lives; we are sensitive to the needs of all who encounter us; we try hard to engage people we have not yet reached.
Support Our Work
Magnetic North is a registered Scottish charity and receives regular funding from Creative Scotland. Our work is also made possible through the generosity of trusts, foundations, and individual supporters.