Free online discussions led by England's Youth Theatre NPOs through 2024

‘More and more youth theatre practitioners tell us they want to connect to peers and to learn together. People who make theatre with young people are doing some of the most challenging and most important work, I think, and we’re much stronger when we’re sharing and working together.’

Gabi, Producer (Relationships and Exchange) at Company Three

We’re teaming up with Youth Theatre organisations to lead twice monthly discussions and training for anyone interested in or currently working in Youth Theatre.

Running a Youth Theatre is co-led by: 20 Stories High, Burnley Youth Theatre, Company Three, Mortal Fools, Prime Theatre, Theatre Factory and Zest Theatre.

We’re offering free, open access, online space to discuss the purpose, practice and practicalities of running a youth theatre today. All sessions are drop in, and will be facilitated by industry experts by shaped by participants.

This partnership was created as a response to the lack of network and structured collaboration opportunities for youth theatre practitioners, especially those freelancing or hoping to set up their own youth theatre. Running a Youth Theatre aims to connect up practitioners working across the country to inspire knowledge and resource sharing within the youth theatre sector, so it can be even more connected and impactful.

These twice monthly sessions will cover important topics like safeguarding, working with freelancers, inclusivity and access, organisational structure, creative programming and more. Experts from the youth theatre group will share their approach and facilitate discussion and questions.

Nathan Powell, the Creative Producer at 20 Stories High, says:

"As a NPO funded organisation, a big part of 20 Stories High's remit is to share our learning and experience across the sector. We want to collaborate and continue to develop our practice of working with young people and by sharing what we know and learning from what others know, our work continues to develop."

Mark Powell, the Artistic Director of Prime Theatre, says:

‘England’s Youth Theatre Sector is championing young people more than ever before, in times of poor mental health and economic accessibility. Committed, passionate professionals up and down the country are making a huge difference, often without great resource or support. This much needed opportunity will bring respite, resource, and a vital sense of community.’