The artistic, social and personal benefits of joining a Youth Theatre can be invaluable in many young people’s lives, so we are delighted to be launching our new Youth Theatre for teens this week at BANTS! This is a series of collaborative weekly workshops where participants can find their voice and develop their theatre skills.
It’s not focused solely on acting – but also writing, directing and design – for people who are interested in aspects of theatre outside of performance. It’s a space that encourages exploration and growth, and fosters a supportive community where young performers can thrive.
What are the benefits of joining a Youth Theatre?
According to the CentreStage+20 report completed by Youth Theatre Ireland, the national development organisation for youth theatre, there are numerous benefits to participating in a Youth Theatre, making it an invaluable experience for many young people as they navigate their teenage years.
The Artistic Benefits of Joining a Youth Theatre
• Increased theatre skills
• Increased appreciation of theatre and the arts
• Increased creativity
• Improved workshop skills
• Progression to third-level drama and theatre training and professional theatre
The Social and Personal Benefits of Joining a Youth Theatre
• Increased levels of confidence and self-esteem
• Increased numbers of friends and an increased ability to make friends
• A more developed sense of personal and group identity
• A sense of belonging
• Increased self-discipline and commitment
• Improved abilities to articulate and express feelings and opinions
• A sense of happiness, fun and well-being
• Increased levels of activity
• A sense of personal and group achievement
• Increased understanding and knowledge of relevant issues
• Increased ability to take risks and be spontaneous within a safe environment
• A sense of empowerment
• A sense of escape and relaxation
The Impact of Participation in Youth Theatre
We know from testimonials the impact that joining a Youth Theatre can make in many young people’s lives. Here’s what Emily, a BANTS Speech and Drama Teacher, said of her experience:
“Youth Theatre offered me a place where I could be myself. It was a safe environment where I could develop creatively while also having the best time with the most amazing people. For the first time I felt as though my ideas were not only heard but welcomed and encouraged. This is something that as a teenager you don’t often experience. In most things you are participating in, at this time in your life, there is a rigid structure. Which of course can be necessary but also can feel restrictive. Particularly for those of us with creative minds. Youth Theatre is a place where likeminded people can come together and support each other through fun, play, and performance and be supported to take their own creative risks. Youth Theatre was the first place that I felt like ‘I could do this’, and more importantly I felt comfortable enough to express that. I can confidently say that without a doubt, I would not be who I am today both as a performer and a person, without participating in youth theatre.”
Join us on this exciting new journey!
If you know a teen who’d benefit from joining a Youth Theatre, why not sign up to try a class – it’s completely free for the first term. Book now using our website or get in touch with us to learn more.
