Press release: Chesil Youth Theatre
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As the new school year begins, so too does the new season of the Chesil
Youth Theatre Founded in 1995 it has given hundreds of youngsters the chance
to learn new skills and discover the joy of taking part in drama.
The group is led by Noel Thorpe –Tracey with the support of other adult Chesil members. “Although one of our aims is to improve acting and presentation skills, it is not a stage school,” said Noel. “Taking part in drama helps develop confidence, imagination and the ability to work creatively with others.” Only a few of the past members have gone into professional theatre as adults, but many of them are working in areas such as law, medicine, arts organisations and even the BBC. “Joining a theatre group is a superb way of meeting like minded people when you move to a new area and can be a source of much enjoyment at all ages.” Activities include improvising around themes, practising mime, movement, stagecraft and character development. This year a full production will be put on in December. Older members have the opportunity to learn how to operate the lighting and sound and last season they ran the boards for The Comedy of Errors, impressing the adult stage crew with their commitment and expertise. Over the years young actors have been involved in several Chesil productions: Cider with Rosie, The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie, The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole, The Dreams of Anne Frank and Tom’s Midnight Garden offered major parts for them. Other plays such as Shadowlands or A Day in the Death of Joe Egg had one vital role which required a youngster. They were shared between two actors. “Next May there is a chance for an older girl to appear in a challenging role in Kindertransport,” said Noel, “Although all auditions are open, we hope it will be someone from the Youth Theatre.” Members come from Winchester and further afield, from state and independent schools and colleges. Fees are deliberately kept as low as possible to encourage full participation. In keeping with the Chesil’s charitable status they can be reduced or even waived in some circumstances. The 12 week terms are arranged round the school terms starting on September 14th. The Juniors who are in school Years 5-8, meet on Tuesdays and the Seniors, Year 9 upwards, on Mondays. Sessions begin at 6.15pm and last until 7.30pm when the cast for the current play arrive for rehearsal. With some of the older ones off to College and University and Juniors graduating to the Seniors there are a few vacancies in both groups. For more information see the website www.chesiltheatre.org.uk or email workshops@chesiltheatre.org.uk Lisbeth Rake Marketing and Publicity 01794 388245 |
Young actors Edie Lawrence, James Hake and Aedan Goodenough |
