Prime Youth Theatre have enjoyed another successful year with many achievements to celebrate. Over 100 young people of all backgrounds and abilities developed their performance, teamwork and communication skills by participating in an impressive 12 performance projects and over 330 workshops with theatre professionals. Jacob, a Prime Youth Theatre assistant and Young Trustee, attested ‘Prime has helped me grow as an actor and as an individual. Without Prime I would not be where I am today.’
From performing in the High Sheriff of Wiltshire’s gala performance Uncelebrated Journeyin October to filming A Poem for Swindonwith the BBC in May, members have enjoyed a wealth of exciting opportunities. In July alone, Prime Youth Theatre members: performed an original promenade play around Lydiard Park; starred in a new radio play broadcast on BBC Wiltshire; took part in writing workshops with professional writers Jamila Gavin, Elizabeth St John and Katherine Smith and performed to an audience of over 400 at our Peace Day event, including Mayor of Swindon Kevin Parry.
Members also gained an insight into the professional theatre industry, benefitting from the unique opportunity to participate in the development of Prime Theatre’s professional touring work. Writers’ Pad members gave important feedback to Horrible Histories author Terry Deary on his first draft of the acclaimed The 11thHour, whilst acting members took an active role in research and development workshops for The Green Game. In the next year members will have the opportunity to take this introduction to professional theatre practice further by auditioning for Prime’s actor training course, The Actors’ Elite.
A very fruitful year culminated with the Youth Theatre Showcase, run independently by Prime Youth Theatre’s Tech Crew, which gave all members the chance to perform and celebrate their progress. Jo, the parent of a new youth theatre member, commented ‘It is a real joy, to see so many young people growing, expressing their ideas, and having a great time.’
Prime would like to thank all the young people, carers and supporters who have helped make this year a success – we look forward to seeing what new and exciting opportunities 2019-2020 will bring! If you’d like to take part, you can register for Prime Youth Theatre by visiting our website, https://www.primetheatre.co.uk/youth-theatre/ or by calling the office on 01793 614 864.
Workshops are open to any young person aged 5-25 and take place on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at the Wyvern Theatre. Subsidised places are available for Children Looked After, D/deaf young people and young people living in a household with an income of under 25K. To apply for a grant please email sarah@primetheatre.co.uk.
