How would you describe your youth organisation?
The 'Wythenshawe Youth Theatre' is based in Wythenshawe, Manchester and is dedicated to training its young actors, from the surrounding areas, in all aspects of the theatre industry; whether it be Performing Arts or Technical Theatre. This registered voluntary organisation has been running since 1999, performing a variety of different productions. It has its own committee and trained Drama Leader and hopes to be fully manned by the youth members in the future.
How does your organisation help young people?
This organisation is the ideal way to get young people in Wythenshawe and Manchester aged between 11-17 years, involved and trained in the professional theatrical ways of using various skills and equipment to put on a show. This is done through the experience of the volunteers and crew who work backstage in technical areas as well as the actors and director who are the stars.
How many young people do you help?
Up to now we have around 20 youth members and 10 volunteers. We try to perform as many shows as we can a year in many venues ranging from schools to professionally equipped theatres. This helps us get more members of the public interested and joining. It also helps them see just how much hard work our young actors do to put on each show.
How big is your organisation?
This particular organisation only usually operates within the Manchester area, however in some cases we do make exceptions. For Example if we enter a competition or get a booking elsewhere.
What types of young people do you work with?
We work with any young people within the age range of 11-17 years. We have 3 Child Protection Officers to ensure the best comfort, safety and equality within the group. We also run workshops in all aspects of the industry. From Make-up and Sound, to Lighting and Scenery, and of course Acting.
When was your organisation set up?
The organisation was officially set up on 1st December 1999 following on from the work started by Councillor Glynn Evans (who is the current Lord Mayor of Manchester), Hazel Evans, Dave Mangan and Cathy Mangan. The Youth Theatre then became a registered charity on 2nd January 2002.
Why was it set up?
The Youth Theatre was organised to advance the education of young people living in Wythenshawe and surrounding areas, aged between 11-17 years, in appreciation of Drama and Performing Arts and other related matters. As well as learning drama skills, the young people grow considerably in confidence. The Youth theatre encourages their young members to get involved in every aspect of the theatre industry.
What have been the highlights and the achievements of the organisation so far?
Our ultimate aim is to have the Youth theatre fully manned by the young members with the supervision of the adult volunteers offering support. They have received funding from many big-brand organisations and local ones too. Paul Goggins MP of Wythenshawe & Sale East is President. We are also connected to many education sources. Thanks to our Web Developer and Young Advisor, We have our very own stylish website up and running. We have even had the chance to star and appear in various films with the help of local film making groups and also with the help of James Twyman.
What are the plans for the organisation this year?
This year we hope to perform a few shows linked to the social issues in the local community and even a few competitions and maybe even link up with TV, Radio and Film personalities to publicise and improve our workshops.
How can young people get in touch with your organisation?
West Wythenshawe Youth Centre, Moor Road, M23 9BQ. If you would like more information on this organisation or even would like to join it, please visit our website: www.wythenshaweyouththeatre.piczo.com
