TOOLBOX 2026
TOOLBOX 2026
A residential leadership & development programme for producers
26 – 29 Jan 2026
101 Outdoor Arts
£175
TOOLBOX is a holistic residency programme for producers working in unconventional spaces, designed to nurture both the person and the professional. It offers space to explore new ways of working creatively, whilst building a sustainable career, avoiding burnout and becoming part of a supportive community.
WATCH NOW: TOOLBOX 2025
What is Toolbox?
Toolbox uses a coaching leadership style and draws on peer-to-peer working to guide participants through key themes including:
- Self-awareness & personal values
- Belief systems & limiting narratives
- Managing stress & staying energised
- Values-based & authentic leadership
- Building a healthy, sustainable creative practice
You’ll leave with real, practical tools to navigate workplace challenges, stay connected to the passion that drives your work, and deliver your projects with greater impact and ease.
The Programme
Rather than a traditional ‘how-to-produce’ course, this programme is shaped by the experience in the room. Through peer-led formats like Open Space, we use the collective hive mind to identify hot issues and work towards solutions. Then, we can signpost to sources of further learning and dedicated training.
Each day starts with embodied practices like Qigong or yoga and ends with group activities such as bamboo building, knife throwing, conjuring and pyrotechnics - offering playful, energising ways to reconnect with yourself and others.
Who comes to TOOLBOX?
Over 60 producers from seven countries have taken part in TOOLBOX over the years. We recognise that everyone has different needs, experiences and works in different contexts. If you are producing work in unconventional spaces and are interested in ways to engage audiences and participants in transformative creative experiences then TOOLBOX is for you.
Previous participants have worked for festivals, artistic companies, funding organisations, place-based and participatory programmes and as independent producers. Seasoned producers generously give experience to those earlier in their journey whilst new perspectives from fresh voices reinvigorate the discussion and provide new inspirations.
The TOOLBOX Team
The TOOLBOX team is led by coach and facilitator Bettina Linstrum who is joined by respected leadership trainers Elaine Heslop and Katie Adams, offering deep insight into coaching practice, authentic leadership and personal vision. Toolbox alumni and producer Kate McStraw will help you explore how to widen access and inclusion in your work.
Throughout the programme, you’ll also hear from guest speakers, take part in creative workshops and have the chance to benefit from the experience and perspectives of the wider 101 team.
A Year-round Community
TOOLBOX goes beyond just one residency. TOOLBOX supports producers with a culture of honesty, understanding and compassion throughout the year - with facilitated online Action Learning Sets and TOOLBOX TOGETHER:
- Facilitated Online Action Learning Sets are a space for creative problem-solving and peer learning through questions, reflection, action setting, and accountability.
- TOOLBOX TOGETHER is a mini-residency which brings together previous TOOLBOX participants for further professional development sessions and creative activity.
Tools you'll gain from being part of the TOOLBOX community:
- Space and time to reflect and recharge
- The experience and perspectives of a wider range of other producers
- Holistic leadership skills
- Strategies to prevent burnout
- Practical tips to support wellbeing and mental health
- Coaching techniques to unlock your best self
- Techniques for building a coaching culture in your work
- Tools for tackling imposter syndrome
- Ongoing support through facilitated online Action Learning Sets
- TOOLBOX TOGETHER, a mini-residency for TOOLBOX alumni
- A trusted, ongoing peer network
"What I love about Toolbox is that we are all producers but in very different contexts and spheres of influence. Whether freelance, running festivals or venues, and programming based, it’s been super enjoyable to understand the different flavours of producing, while being all in a room able to share our challenges."
How to Apply
Please apply for this opportunity using the online application form. Applications may be accepted on a rolling basis – you will be contacted regardless of the outcome.