Sitting in the beautiful Old Vic Theatre, I was privy to the launch of the T S Eliot UK/US Exchange for 50 UK and 50 US writers, directors, producers and actors between the ages of 18-30 years. Steve Winter, Head of the 'Old Vic New Voices' programme described it as “a glorified student exchange, but better, and for adults”,  laying down the main challenge saying “We'll get you there [New York], look after you and introduce you to a range of inspiring people but its up to you to create new artistic connections.” The initiative partners with The Public Theater in New York where Kevin Spacey, the Old Vic's Artistic Director began his career.

James Earl Jones’s voice vibrated across the theatre as with a glint in his eye he growled “so you coming to America are you?” He gave a potted history of things he learnt in both New York and London, remembering an early experience of theatre “seeing the warmth of the light on the dark stage and thinking 'that looks nice place to be’ ''. He spoke of being inspired by the script of 'The Crucible' and how Arthur Miller was able to deal with a crisis using his pen. He compared this to other playwrights such as Leroy Jones who had put down his pen to turn his attention to the civil rights moment - a move that Earl felt was misguided - that like Miller, Leroy could have used his craft to inspire thousands through his plays about the issues he was passionate about.

Two former exchangers told of their experiences and were clearly inspired by their week across the ocean. 'It was the single most influential moment in my career thus far - you can find yourself alone in the world after university but through the exchange I found a fantastic network of people that I will know and work for the rest of my life”. They went on, “it allows you to meet people, pick their brains and learn about how to work...embrace it, make connections, it is the ultimate opportunity to work with like-minded people”.

Spacey graced the stage through a short film, endorsing the initiative as a chance to “exchange thoughts and ideas and develop international career opportunities through dynamic peer relations” as well as reassuring us that although the logo behind him looked similar to a political campaign hoarding he was not running for office.

A trustee of the T S Eliot Estate spoke, describing their partnership with the exchange as the “future of theatre and an important union between two great names - T S Eliot and the Old Vic”, before introducing Jeremy Irons, who said he had learnt a huge amount from how New York deals with acting and his craft has got better because of it.  He encouraged those fortunate to go on this “wonderfully generous journey” to “breathe it in”.

The youthful energy and anticipation in the room were palpable, and there was a refreshing and distinct lack of cynicism as the packed theatre laughed and clapped throughout. There was an unfortunate lack of women on the stage which hopefully won't be reflected in the selection process, but overall I was reminded of the sense of the magic that theatre can bring and the potential of our new and emerging artists as I left smiling for those lucky enough to go.

To find out more go to ideastap.com and sign up and apply. Deadline is 10th March 2010. Go for it.