Cheshire East Youth Theatre expands – by popular demand!

 

Cheshire East Youth Theatre is proving such a hit that it is branching out to showcase a new older group of talent. 

Cheshire East Youth Theatre (CEYT), which is organised by Cheshire East Council and based at the Lyceum Theatre, is collectively Crewe, Sandbach and Alsager youth theatres and, until now, has catered for young people aged from five to 18.

But it has proved such a success that it is adding a new age group – for young people aged 17 to 25 – following the popularity of its classes and the desire of older students to keep involved with CEYT after turning 19.

The new group, based at the Lyceum, will perform the hit play Billy Liar, by Keith Waterhouse and Willis Hall, at the Lyceum, next July 1.

The group, which aims to be semi-professional, will be an exciting opportunity for young people to work with a highly-experienced, professional director who has also acted in West End productions. It will also allow young people to build on their acting skills and learn techniques that will help them with future careers in showbusiness.

Councillor Jamie Macrae, Cabinet member with responsibility for prosperity, said: “Youth theatre is a tremendous opportunity for youngsters to learn a multitude of skills that will stand them in good stead for their whole lives.

“It is also a wonderful place for young people to meet other people, spread their creative wings and learn more about the theatre and possible future careers in the industry. It is pleasing to see that the youth theatre is expanding to cater for older youngsters, by popular demand.”

Aspiring actor Alex Lyon, 18, said: “I am so excited that there will be a new group at CEYT for older members and, as an aspiring actor, I am going to learn so much more. I can’t wait!”

CEYT recently showcased its youngsters’ talents at a vibrant event to celebrate the 100th birthday of Crewe’s Lyceum Theatre.

CEYT is now made up of eight groups. Lyceum Youth Theatre has five age groups: five to seven; eight to 10; 11 to 13; 14 to 16; and 17 to 25, based in the theatre’s rehearsal room. Alsager Youth Theatre, based in Alsager Community Church Hall, has two groups: seven to 11; and 12+. Sandbach Youth Theatre, based in Sandbach Town Hall, has one group for youngsters aged seven to 11.

Members get the chance to attend workshops and tread the boards of the Lyceum Theatre stage, as well as perform at other local venues and regional festivals. No previous experience is necessary and there are no auditions needed. 

The new group, for young people aged 17-25, will rehearse at the Lyceum Theatre every Thursday, from 6.30pm to 8.30pm. The fee for the first 11-week term, which starts on January 12, is £55.

Anyone interested in joining Cheshire East Youth Theatre should ring co-ordinator Hayley Lindley on 07709 180296 or email her at: ceyt@cheshireeast.gov.uk