Winner of the Little Vikings Award for Best Drama Class several years running, the York Theatre Royal youth theatre is hugely popular with families. It takes children from 5 to 19 years old and offers brilliant drama training from professional theatre practitioners. There are classes throughout the week and at weekends, and the waiting list can be lengthy so it's worth joining ASAP if you're interested (email  youththeatre@yorktheatreroyal.co.uk).

THE DETAILS

Youth Theatre sessions run alongside school terms, September to July in three 10/11 week blocks. Ages range is from 5 – 19 years and are split into project groups: 5 – 8’s, 8 – 11’s, 11 – 14’s, 14 – 16’s and 16+. Each project group meets once a week during term time and is led by an experienced practitioner and assistant. They can also provide a mentor if a young person needs additional support.

Youth Theatre takes place in venues across our beautiful city, including:

- New Earswick Folk Hall
- York St John University
- York College
- York Theatre Royal, Studio

Every group has the opportunity to perform at least once a year either in the Main House, Studio or another venue. During production terms, there will be additional rehearsals and dress/technical rehearsals for the participating group.

Each term every group has a theatre trip to a York Theatre Royal production, linked to the Youth Theatre’s work. There is often the opportunity to meet artists with Q&A sessions with visiting actors and acclaimed directors like Emma Rice. Youth Theatre members over 8 years also have an annual trip to the renowned pantomime.

Youth Theatre members are often invited to audition for professional productions, including the theatre's very own pantomime and summer shows, as well as associated work.