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Three people rehearsing for a show. They are smiling.

Young Co.

Love theatre and want to have fun in a creative environment?

The Young Co. is for people aged 18-22 who share a passion for making theatre. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds. 

Participants develop skills in all aspects of theatre making. This includes performance, writing and production. Whatever your interests, we will nurture your talents and create opportunities for you.  

Through this programme you will gain a unique insight into the world of professional theatre making. It’s also a great place to build confidence, improve social skills and make friends.  

Young Co. Projects are varied and have included performances at the Citizens Theatre, tours to secondary schools and scratch night events. Some participants go on to find careers in theatre.  

Practical information

  • The term runs from September – June each year. Sessions take place on Wednesday evenings from 7-9pm. Times during rehearsals may vary.  
  • There is also a four-day Summer Academy in August. 
  • Sessions currently take place at Impact Arts. 
  • The group is run by Community Director Neil Packham. He’s joined by a range of guest theatre practitioners across the year. 
  • Between 2023-2026, membership to the Young Co. is subsidised with support from the National Lottery.     

What our participants say

It’s refreshing to be in a space with people who want to explore with you.

I felt lost after my degree with going out and socialising and being at Young Co allows me to be with people my age. I can be free and not care about life for a few hours. I’m new this past summer but it’s already changed me for the better .

How to get involved

There are 20 places in the group. To register your interest in the Young Co., please email Neil Packham.

You don’t need to audition for the Young Co., we just want to hear why you are interested in taking part. You might have some previous drama experience, or you might not, all can apply!  

We run a waiting list and new members are usually introduced in August at the Summer Academy.  

We want our classes to be as accessible as possible. When booking there’ll be a chance to include your access requirements. You can also request a chat with a member of our Participate Team.

A stage show. Three people in boiler suits stand across the stage. The word 'cognitive' is projected on the wall behind them.

Take a look at some recent Young Co. highlights
A stage performance. A young woman is dancing with gusto. There is an old fashioned tape player on the floor in front of her. The screen behind her says '01 May 2044'
A stage show. A woman is sitting on steps wearing a sling on her arm. A woman is stood behind her holding a bandage to her head. There is a man to the side of them. The word PAL is projected on the wall behind them.
A stage show. A man is standing in front of a microphone. A woman is sitting on the floor in front of him holding a microphone.
A stage show. A woman is standing on stage. She is wearing a school uniform. She is waving a vodka bottle in the air and holding a backpack in the other hand.
A theatrical production. A young woman lies in a hospital bed. A second woman is perched on the side of the bed and a young man is standing talking to them holding a clip board. They are surrounded by a group of people all wearing striped tops. One of the group is holding a painting of a yacht and another is holding a up an IV drip.
A stage show. Women wearing striped tops and floral swimming caps. They are standing in row with their arms outstreched.

Supporters

Young Co. is supported by Young Start, delivered by The National Lottery Community Fund. 

Relevant projects

Exploring mental health with our Young Co.
A stage show. A man is standing in front of a microphone. A woman is sitting on the floor in front of him holding a microphone.

Exploring mental health with the Young Co. 

Over the years, the Young Co. have explored the theme of mental health across various creative projects. Find out more.  

How our young people kept creating during COVID-19
Young people from the Saturday Citizens group in a park. Two of them are in the foreground laughing, and all are wearing purple Citizens Theatre t-shirts.

How our young people kept creating during COVID-19

During the pandemic, our programmes for young people adapted to keep creating art. Find out more.