What Jo Said: Space For Young People to be Themselves

Youth theatre has a hugely important part to play in amateur theatre and as NODA North East Youth Co-ordinator and District 13 representative I am doubly blessed to have Yew Tree Youth Theatre (YTYT) as part of the district.

In addition to performance skills young people can gain so many benefits from being involved in youth theatre including building confidence, communication skills, creativity, teamwork, and emotional development.  YTYT provides a safe and supportive environment for self-expression, social interaction, and personal growth, which will ultimately boost self-esteem and well-being. 

Through watching the YTYT productions I can see how youth theatre helps young people overcome stage fright, develop self-assurance, and believe in their own abilities.  Improving communication skills is achieved through participating in activities and it also enhances verbal and non-verbal communication, including clear articulation, active listening, and effective expression of ideas.  Everyone at YTYT gets the opportunity to participate in a way that suits them.   At YTYT it is clear that emphasis is place on diction – the annunciation is perfect with young people clearly displaying the skills they have learnt in their groups and through the LAMDA lessons.  Every story and every LAMDA presentation is beautifully done and the technical abilities of this group never fails to impress.  

So much of what young people do at school now is prescribed, but it is fabulous to see the way that creativity and imagination is enhanced at YTYT with young people involved in the devising and creation of so many pieces of work.  They are supported to explore their creativity, develop original ideas, and experiment with different forms of artistic expression.   This may be a short play developed from a traditional fairytale, or a more in-depth exploration of relationships and challenges faced by young people in today’s world, but all YTYT members are creative, have fun and share joy in a supportive environment.

Working on a theatre production at any age requires teamwork, cooperation, and mutual respect, collaboration and work effectively with others and contribute to a shared goal.   These skills can be transferred into education and ultimately into employment as well as being invaluable in family and social settings – being part of youth theatre activities allows young people to start early in terms of developing these skills. The YTYT productions often explore diverse cultures, historical events, and social issues which seeks to broaden young people's understanding of the world and their cultural awareness.

Youth theatre should provide a platform for exploring emotions, developing empathy, and understanding different perspectives.  This emotional development at pivotal time in a young person’s life can support and help them with social skills and friendships.  Making new friends, building social connections can help with a sense of belonging.   These skills and opportunities ultimately support positive mental health and well-being. From working closely with YTYT I can see that Sarah and the team work hard to ensure that it is a positive and enjoyable experience.  This will reduce stress, boost mood, and promote overall well-being.   Completing a theatrical production, whether a play, musical, or devised piece can also provide a sense of accomplishment which will empower young people to take on new challenges.

What is hugely evident in watching the development of YTYT members from the delightfully spirited performances of Emerald and Yellow groups through to the often complex and challenging work of Black group you can see how they have grown as performers, but also as people.  The children and young people are involved in choosing what is presented, they are also engaged with devising the work and then take centre stage in delivering the performances as well as any number of backstage roles.   Life is complicated for children in today’s world, but YTYT offers a safe and supportive space to develop and explore.  Whilst some young people go on to make theatre their life many of the successful alumni from YTYT aren’t performers but go on to a wide range of occupations and roles, taking with them the skills they have developed at YTYT.  I am in no doubt that working together as part of this creative and vibrant team helps and supports young people in whatever way they choose to go.

As Youth Co-ordinator it is always great to see a YTYT production and to share in the work that has been developed.  However, I know that the magic of YTYT is not just the productions - it is what goes on week in and week out in the space created for young people to be themselves…….and anyone else they choose to be as part of the productions!