A DRAMA grant has been set up to allow young actors in part of the North-East to work with professionals.

Durham County Council has set up a fund under the Elements drama initiative to allow young people who are regularly involved in theatre to get professional expertise.

Groups will be awarded up to £3,000 to commission a script for them to perform, or to commission a director, choreographer, composer or actor to create a piece of work with the group.

Elements project officer Jessica Bell said: "Groups do not need to have a particular professional in mind to work with, just a good idea of what they would like to commission.

"A development worker will help successful groups with their projects."

Elements is a drama initiative for County Durham which is funded by Easington, Chester-le-Street, Derwentside, Teesdale, Wear Valley and Sedgefield councils, Durham County Council and the Arts Council of England.

To apply for a grant, call 0191-384 2214.

Published: 12/12/2003