The Sunday for Sammy Trust is delighted to announce that applications are opening for its Spring 2026 round of grants, supporting the next generation of performing arts talent from the North East of England.
The Trust offers financial assistance to young performers to help cover the costs of training, specialist equipment, and travel expenses—providing vital support at key stages in their creative development.
Applicants must be aged 16 or over and either be from, or currently reside in, the North East of England. The application window opens on 30 March and closes on 24 April 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend an in-person audition and informal interview with trustees on Sunday 17 May 2026 at Gateshead College.
Ray Laidlaw, producer of Sunday for Sammy, said:
“We are passionate about nurturing emerging talent from the North East and helping young performers overcome financial barriers. We encourage anyone with ambition and dedication to apply. This really could be the first step of an amazing career for someone from our region.”
Previous recipients continue to demonstrate the impact of the Trust’s support.
Ben Donaghy, from Durham, received a grant to take his show to the Edinburgh Fringe:
“Sunday for Sammy gave me an incredibly generous grant which allowed me to focus on doing the show to its full extent, instead of worrying about how much money I was going to lose. Because of that support, I was able to tell my story of growing up queer in the North East at the largest arts festival in the world.”
He added: Since then, I’ve been lucky enough to perform in the musical The Last Ship on its international tour with preforming icons like Sting, Joe Caffrey and Kathryn Tickell. I feel very privileged for the way Sunday For Sammy has allowed me to feel included in the vibrant arts scene in the North East.”
Katie Grace, from Tynemouth, also credits the Trust with opening doors in her music career:
“The grant funded my band being able to travel up from London to play the main stage of Mouth of the Tyne Festival and to record an EP. Being supported by Sunday for Sammy means being part of the wonderful community it’s built, and that’s so important as a young creative.”
Inspired by the legacy of actor Sammy Johnson, the Trust has become a vital source of encouragement and financial support for emerging talent across the region.
Funds are raised primarily through the Sunday for Sammy concerts, held at the Utilita Arena Newcastle, which bring together high-profile performers with North East roots alongside rising stars. These celebrated events not only showcase regional talent but also generate the income that enables the Trust to award grants throughout the year.
The application form can be downloaded from www.sundayforsammy.org from 30th March.