Performers from the world of theatre, dance and music are to benefit from a £150,000 scheme that has been set up by Sky Arts, aimed at supporting young artists at the beginning of their careers.

Called Sky Arts Ignition – Futures Fund, the scheme will award five individuals grants of £30,000 to help them “bridge the gap between formal education and becoming a working artist”.

The scheme follows the launch of the Sky Arts’ Ignition Series, which was unveiled in April and is a £1.2 million fund aimed at supporting arts organisations.

As well awarding artists a £30,000 grant, the Futures Fund initiative – which is open to those aged 18 to 30 living in the UK and Ireland – will see each successful applicant paired with a mentor from Sky, who will help develop their skills and knowledge in the arts sector.

Sky Arts director James Hunt said that people “can’t fulfil their potential and pursue their artistic ambitions without support”.

Read the full story on www.thestage.co.uk