Youth Theatre

Reading

Masquerade Youth Theatre (not on this page)
Progress Theatre student group and youth group (not on this page)
Starmaker

Basingstoke Youth Theatre (Haymarket)

For young people aged 14-19 in Hampshire, meeting on Thursday evenings. Entry is by audition only. For information on joining and attending Youth Theatre Productions please contact the Haymarket on 01256 355844.

Central Studio Youth Theatre (Basingstoke)

There are junior youth theatre groups for two age ranges - 8 to 11 and 12 to 15. The Bite Size group is for the 8 to 11 year olds and meets from 5:30 to 7:00 on Tuesdays. The older groups are for 12 to 15 years and run from 6:30 to 8:00 on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.

The senior group is a project-based group that works through an intensive rehearsal period to produce musicals and plays. This group is aimed at 16 years +.

For more information, phone Central Studio on 01256 417511.

Corn Exchange Youth Theatre

Next production

The Jungle Book, 17th to 19th April, 13:00 and 18:00
Saved from the tiger’s jaws, baby Mowgli is adopted by a wolf family to embark on a journey of discovery to find his place in the animal kingdom, guided by his larger than life friends. But danger lurks around many corners in the jungle, with the ever-looming shadow of the terrifying tiger, Shere Khan. Mowgli must face his nemesis but in doing so, discovers that his greatest challenge lies within; neither a creature of the jungle, nor at home among people, he must find a way to accept who he is and to become who he must be. Featuring unforgettable songs and directed and designed by a professional team, the Corn Exchange Youth Theatre invite you to join them in the depths of the jungles of India, for a tale of adventure, bravery and self-discovery.

Who

Young performers will have the opportunity to make new friends and learn new performance skills with the support of our professional theatre practitioners. Each term they'll create showcase sharings for parents, as well as produce large-scale bi-annual performances with a fully-professional creative team.

As an openly accessible youth theatre, there will be no audition process and registration will work on a first come, first served basis.

The Infant Youth Theatre is for Reception, Year 1 and Year 2, the Junior Youth Theatre is for Year 3 to Year 9, the Intermediate Youth Theatre is for Years 10 and 11, and the Senior Youth Theatre is for ages 16-19. More information is at cornexchangenew.com/learning/youth-theatre

Newbury YoungStars

Last production

Matilda Jr, 26th to 27th April 2024
Get ready for a rebellious adventure as the children rise up in Matilda Jr. Step into the well-loved story of a girl who dreams of a better life, and the children she inspires. Root for the 'revolting children' who are out to teach the grown-ups a lesson in this heart-warming tale that celebrates the anarchy of childhood, the power of imagination, and the resilience of young heroes. Join us for an electrifying performance filled with dazzling dance numbers and unforgettable songs. Come and be part of the magic, Maggots!

Where

Arlington Arts Centre.

Box Office

01635 244246.

Review of Alice In Wonderland

20th to 21st April 2018.

Review from the Newbury Weekly News.

Hearty cheer for YoungStars

Three Alices for the price of one in music theatre Wonderland

Newbury YoungStars: Alice in Wonderland, at Arlington Arts, Snelsmore, on Friday, April 20, and Saturday, April 21

Alice in Wonderland was certainly a good choice for a young theatre group, with the famous larger-than-life characters all on parade and behaving throughout as many young persons do in certain situations.

Newbury YoungStars had this show covered from the start, with a bright and colourful dance sequence, followed by the song Alice in Wonderland, which soon became a jazz standard after the Disney film opened in London in 1951.

The film was an animated feature, with the voices dubbed by actors and singers, but here we were treated to a lavish stage presentation, with a large country scene projection at the back of the stage and the characters and chorus in colourful costumes.

Mabel Stewart was a lithe White Rabbit, heading for Wonderland as Alice scampered after her, following the opening songs. We had three Alice actors for the price of one, with Sophie Willcocks starting off, before drinking the liquid that turned her into Tall Alice (Anna Tippett) or Small Alice, Ruby Waters. All three did very well in the part, and director Sarah Scott and choreographer Ellen Busby worked out impressive ways of changing Alice - at one point she changed on stage in front of everyone, surrounded by a chorus of young people whose clever movements momentarily deceived the eye.

Luke Diprose and Frankie Lochhead had a good little comedy double-act, as Tweedle Dum and Tweedle Dee, with Luke also playing Door Knob at one point and Emily Hamilton made a fine Caterplillar, if I can put it that way.

Caitlin Richards was a robust Queen of Hearts and Riley Seamons doubled well as the Dodo and The King of Hearts, even if the parts he played seem a bit incompatible.

With a cast of 25, there is not room to mention everyone, but every part played was spot-on in character, movement and the ability to sing very well.

This was indeed a well-paced, smooth and colourful production, every part neatly co-ordinated from the piano, bass and percussion music trio to the lively dance routines and final Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah curtain calls at the end.

DEREK ANSELL

Previous productions

Singin’ In The Rain Jr, 31st March to 1st April 2023
High School Musical, 1st to 2nd April 2022
Aladdin, 10th 1o 11th July 2021
Legally Blonde Jr, 29th to 30th March 2019
Alice In Wonderland, 20th to 21st April 2018
Camp Rock: The Musical, 23rd to 25th March 2017
Fame, 17th to 19th March 2016. See the review in the Archive.
Beauty and the Beast, 12th to 14th March 2015
The Music Man Jr, 14th to 16th March 2013. See the review in the Archive.
Alice in Wonderland, 15th to 17th March 2012. See the review in the Archive.
Oklahoma!, 17th to 19th March 2011. See the review in the Archive.
Annie Junior, 4th to 6th March 2010. See the review in the Archive.
A Load of Rubbish, 23rd to 25th July 2009. See the review in the Archive.
Tin Pan Ali, 1st to 2nd August 2008. See the review in the Archive.
Return to the Forbidden Planet, 26th to 28th July 2007. See the review in the Archive.
A Medley of Modern Musicals, 26th to 27th January 2007
The Dracula Spectacula, 3rd to 5th August 2006 - see the review in the Archive.
10th Anniversary Concert, 13th to 14th January 2006
Summer Holiday, 28th to 30th July 2005
The Vackees, 22nd to 24th July 2004 - see the review in the Archive.
Bugsy Malone, 24th to 26th July 2003 - see the review in the Archive.
Smike, 25th to 27th July 2002 - see the review in the Archive.
Christmas show 2001 - see the review here.
Return to the Forbidden Planet, 26th to 28th July 2001.

Who

Newbury YoungStars is a long-standing, double NODA award winning, community-led youth theatre group. This non-profit organisation is dedicated to providing opportunities for young people aged 9-16 to develop their performing arts skills and experience the thrill of live performance. Email
instagram.com/newburyyoungstars/
facebook.com/NewburyYoungStars

Newbury Youth Theatre

Last production

Here Be Dragons, 27th July 2023
Our brand new, devised, family comedy previews at Arlington Arts before touring to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
This magical portmanteau production features modern fables of love, loss and industrial action – all taken in our trademark playful, ensemble style.
Effie wants to help her Dad kill a dragon; David is running a scam to help cover the cost of his Nan’s cats; Sage solves a dispute in heaven; and some love island lonely hearts are marooned.
It’s up to the staff in the mailroom to reunite, resolve and restore – even though it’s against the rules.

Where

Arlington Arts

Box Office

01635 522733.

Previous productions

The Lost Letters, 23rd July 2022
Wizard of Winterbourne, 27th July 2019 and at the Edinburgh Fringe. See the review in the Archive.
Of Rags and Bones, 28th July 2018 and at the Edinburgh Fringe. See the review in the Archive.
The Glorious Invention of Emmanuel Stork, 29th July 2017 and at the Edinburgh Fringe. See the review in the Archive.
Fairies and Dragons of the Desolate Plain, 23rd July 2016 and at the Edinburgh Fringe. See the review in the Archive.
Cautionary Tales, 25th July 2015 and at the Edinburgh Fringe. See the reviews in the Archive.
The Bee Man of Orn, 26th July 2014 and at the Edinburgh Fringe. See the review in the Archive.
The Curious Case of the Ugglie Wump and Other Mysterious Monsters, 27th July 2013 and at the Edinburgh fringe. See the review in the Archive.
Just So Stories, 28th July 2012 and at the Edinburgh fringe. See the review in the Archive.
The Portrait, 30th July 2011. See the review in the Archive.
From Newbury With Love, 9th to 12th March 2011. Newbury Youth Theatre took part in the premiere of this play presented by RedCape Theatre.
Cautionary Tales, 31st July 2010 See the review in the Archive.
The Lost Letters of Mr Corrigan, 1st August 2009, then at the Edinburgh Fringe, and back in Newbury on 18th December.
The Wind Tamer, 26th July 2008. See the review in the Archive.
Just So, 21st July 2007. See the review in the Archive.
Hope Springs, 17th July 2006. See the review in the Archive.
Pieces of Us, 21st May 2006. See the review in the Archive.
Skellig, 23rd July 2005. See the review in the Archive.
Rainbow's Ending, 19th July 2004. See the review in the Archive.
The Control Experiment, 25th to 26th July 2003
Robbie Williams... Who's He? 2nd to 3rd August 2002. See the review in the Archive.
Dear Kitty, 26th to 27th July 2001. See the reviews in the Archive.

About us

At the Corn Exchange, NYT has two groups, for 9-14 and 14-20 year olds. For more information, call Robin Strapp at the Corn Exchange on 01635 582666 or visit our web site at www.newburyyouththeatre.co.uk. Twitter @Newburyouth.

Newbury Youth Theatre was founded in December 1983 and aims to provide local young people the opportunity to develop their theatrical skills and interests and explore the arts in general and learn more about themselves. There are no auditions or restrictions on membership apart from a commitment from the members to support the group, have energy, enthusiasm and a love of theatre. Above all it's fun!

Reviews of Here Be Dragons

27th July 2023 and at the Edinburgh Fringe.

Review from the Newbury Weekly News.

More ghosts, ghoulies and comically ill-informed tour guides than you can shake an X File at

Newbury Youth Theatre: Here Be Dragons at Arlington Arts, Snelsmore on Thursday, July 27

Cartographers of old were wont to illustrate unexplored lands and seas with drawings of fantastical creatures. One way of filling in the gaps in our knowledge is to make up stories. Such is the root of all myths which are simply a way of explaining things that we don’t fully understand. Legends are slightly different in that they tend have a basis in actual occurrences which couldn’t be explained away but then, through a process akin to Chinese whispers, became more elaborate and fabulous.

One such story is that of the grampus, a bizarre, wheezing, dolphin-like creature that was said to live in a tree in Highclere churchyard and would chase any local parishioner foolish enough to get too close to it. Setting off on a quest to discover some of the country’s lesser-known beasties, bogles and bogeymen, the grampus is the first creature the intrepid cast of Newbury Youth Theatre encounter. Employing a range of theatrical techniques including physical theatre, song and shadow puppets, their adventure takes them northward where they encounter the likes of Lincolnshire’s Yallory Brown, who seems at first to be manically good humoured but is actually pretty sinister. Their journey ends in Edinburgh which, apparently, has more ghosts, ghoulies and comically ill-informed tour guides than you can shake an X File at.

This is an enthusiastic and energetic ensemble which has patently enjoyed researching these stories and finding creative ways of both retelling them and, in some instances, offering possible explanations of them. Monsters may be exaggerated versions of the real but they may also be metaphors.

In discussing the meaning and importance of fairy tales, psychologist Bruno Bettelheim wrote, ‘Those who outlawed traditional folk fairy tales decided that if there were monsters in a story told to children, these must all be friendly – but they missed the monster a child knows best and is most concerned with: the monster he feels or fears himself to be, and which also sometimes persecutes him.’ Bettelheim argues that by giving body to monsters in stories, children who are exposed to them become better able to deal with their own fears and anxieties. Perhaps unwittingly, the young actors of Newbury Youth Theatre have endorsed this theory by interspersing their dramatic retellings of local legends with brief but honest reflections on their own propensity to become monsters at times. Punctuating the humorous take on what are sometimes quite scary tales with these earnest interludes gave the production a depth and relevance.

The company are now off to the Edinburgh Festival. I wish them every success there but would, with respect, advise that they notch up the volume and clarity of their delivery. The theatre at Arlington Arts is lovely but pretty big and even though I was only a few rows from the front I missed a fair amount of the dialogue.

ANDY KEMPE

Review from the Broadway Baby

three stars
This is a heartfelt piece, in which a group of intrepid teens set out to discover monsters… and discover them in the last place they thought to look.

Fringe veterans Newbury Youth Theatre take us on a dreamlike journey through the myths and legends of sea creatures, dream-granting imps, and even dodgy Edinburgh tour guides as this enthusiastic bunch bounce around the stage, using a range of techniques to maintain audience interest. The most successful of these is the shadow puppetry which is deployed to tell the story of the Wulvers, a benevolent band of women who have a close kinship with wolves and help distressed travellers by sharing their catch with them. This was a delicate and engaging scene in which the nature of the Scottish folklore and the medium balanced beautifully to suggest the supernatural elements of the story.

This is very much an ensemble piece, in which the spirited team ebb and flow together to showcase their nascent storytelling skills. Special mentions should be given to Amber Karasinksi, Millie Underwood and Henry Trigwell-Jones for confident and involving characterisations which maintain the pace of the narrative admirably. The mystical elements are punctuated by intense mini-monologues in which members of the cast relive the monsters in their own lives; in one of the live music interludes, Isabel Adams getting toes tapping with a catchy folk song dedicated to one of the characters. There is a scene stealing turn, too, from Hugo Parker-Farrell who chews the scenery with gleeful aplomb.

Here Be Dragons is an interesting little number which works hard to pack in lots of dramatic surprises for its audience; and in the best spirit of the Fringe, allows us to showcase and support vibrant and emerging young performers.

REBECCA VINES

SLY Theatre

Last production

Frankenstein, 15th April 2012 at the Coronation Hall, Burrell Road, Compton RG20 6NP

Review of SLY Theatre - Frankenstein

15th April 2012.

Review from Jane Alexander.

SLY Theatre: Frankenstein, at the Coronation Hall, Compton on 15th April

The original Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is told as a series of letters within letters - a series of flashbacks starting and ending in the Arctic, where a sea captain tells of an encounter with the two principal characters. SLY Theatre’s new stage adaptation remains faithful to the original and the stunning set captured both the bleakness of the Arctic and the scribblings of a tormented genius. The entire story is enacted on the deck of the stranded ship with sails and crates covered with sketches and notes representing pages from notebooks and letters.

The ensemble cast was generally superb, with everyone playing more than one character. Whilst this was initially confusing, the strength of performances and clarity of the story telling soon eradicated any concerns. Elliott Laker’s Victor Frankenstein was the model of the fiery intellectual who will stop at nothing to achieve knowledge; Chris Billingham as the Creature was compelling, especially as he became more competent in English and could express his deep-seated ambivalence about his creator; Holly Lucas’ Elizabeth was thoughtful and complex and her Walton (the ship's captain) suitably commanding. Jessica Holmes brought some much needed comic relief with her unpleasant landlady Frau Brach in stark contrast to her other character: the ill-fated Justine Moritz. Scarlett Smallbone had a commanding presence as Victor’s tutor Waldman and brought a real warmth to Mrs Moritz the Frankensteins' Housekeeper and mother of the murdered Justine.

The story was told at pace, and whilst this captured the impending inevitability of the unfurling tragedy, it would have benefitted from an occasional slowing of tempo to give the audience time to take stock.

This show was not about monsters and mad scientists: it was a thoughtful and faithful adaptation of an important book.

JANE ALEXANDER

About SLY Theatre (Shining Lights)

Shining Lights Youth Theatre, known as SLY Theatre was formed in 1999 to develop the performance skills of young people through workshops that feed into a production. Our aim is to create an environment where young people feel comfortable and learn through positive experiences, pushing the boundaries of youth theatre and always aiming to cover new and interesting ground. SLY Theatre is a self-funded, voluntary organisation dependent on a small, dedicated team of individuals and ex-members who have a passion for the arts. The company is run by Pete Watt (Artistic Director) and Melanie Rosier-Watt (Company Manager).

Previous productions

Kes, 28th to 29th June 2011 at New Greenham Arts. See the review in the Archive.
Disconnected 2011, 9th April 2011
A Christmas Carol, 21st to 22nd December 2010 at New Greenham Arts. See the review in the Archive.
Blood Wedding, 27th to 28th July 2010 at New Greenham Arts. See the review in the Archive.
Mountain Language, 12th to 13th April 2010 at New Greenham Arts. See the review in the Archive.
The Ash Girl, 22nd to 23rd December 2009 at New Greenham Arts. See the review in the Archive.
Hotel, 8th August 2009, at New Greenham Arts. See the review in the Archive.
Medea, 21st to 22nd July 2009 at New Greenham Arts. See the review in the Archive.
Beauty and the Beast, 20th to 21st January 2009, at New Greenham Arts
The Roses of Eyam, 14th to 15th July 2008, at New Greenham Arts. See the review in the Archive.
The Coming of the Kings, 17th and 19th December 2007
Grimm Tales, 23rd to 24th April 2007, at New Greenham Arts
Les Liaisons Dangereuses, 22nd to 23rd February 2005, at New Greenham Arts
In the Shadow of the Cross, 7th April 2004 at St Nicolas' Church. See the review in the Archive.
Arabian Nights, 12th to 13th December 2003, at New Greenham Arts. See the review and pictures in the Archive.
Cabaret, 12th to 14th June 2003, at New Greenham Arts. See the review in the Archive.
Salome, 24th to 25 January 2003, at New Greenham Arts. See the review in the Archive.
4:48 Psychosis, 2nd September 2002, at New Greenham Arts. See the review in the Archive.
Alcestis, 19th March 2002 at New Greenham Arts
Woyzeck, 14th June 2001 at Kennet School. See the review in the Archive.
This is a Chair, 23rd November 2000 at Newbury Corn Exchange. See the review in the Archive.
Equus, 23rd to 24th July 2000. See the review in the Archive.
Alcestis, 19th March 2002.

Teenage Dramas

The Newbury Weekly News previewed this new group:

Lauraine Leigh began teaching drama in Newbury 12 years ago and after a period living in London, has returned to the town. She now works as a dramatherapist and part-time consultant, services which schools in East London and Slough buy in, including from Behaviour Support Services, mainly working with children who are in trouble at school often because they have difficult behaviour. This includes children with or without special needs, some who have suffered bereavement, some who've got into fights, some who've bullied or been bullied, and kids who lack self-esteem.

She's looking to start up an after-school ad hoc teenagers' group called 'Teenage Dramas' after Christmas, based in the Carnegie Room, at Newbury library, which she says "is a nice space, a safe atmosphere".

Using circles, drama games, freezeframes, role-play and role-reversal, the sessions will be aimed at raising self-esteem, to help any young people feel comfortable and confident in themselves, their ideas and their creativity.

Lauraine assures potential participants that "You don't have to be able to act. This isn't about making you feel nervous, it's about helping you feel strong. We'll use your ideas to make up stories: happy ones, sad ones, stories where people get hurt or bullied, and stories which we can laugh at."

"It's about being together and accepting each other, she explains, "and most importantly, it's about having fun together."

"We work with two important boundaries: you can say 'pass' and no put-downs". She maintains adolescence is a time of 'special needs'. The group is for any teenager of the right age.

Lauraine will also be using her skills as a dramatherapist in a separate support group for parents and carers of children and teenagers by bringing metaphor, drama and story as a tool for working with feelings.

To find out more about her sessions, ring Lauraine on (01635) 45011.

The Watermill Youth Theatre / Young Company / Youth Ensemble

Last production

A Monster Calls, 10th to 12th November 2022
The Watermill Youth Ensemble.

Review of the Youth Ensemble's A Monster Calls

10th to 12th November 2022

Review from the Newbury Weekly News.

A truly exceptional company

The Watermill’s senior youth company brought to life a new adaptation of Patrick Ness’ iconic magical-realist tale of grief, love and loss – A Monster Calls.

Following the story of Connie as she struggles to come to terms with her mother’s terminal illness, the play deals with some tough, adult themes which the young company performs with sensitivity and professionalism.

This is a true ensemble production, with some exquisite movement sequences reminiscent of Complicité’s approach to theatre – it featured flying chairs, dream-like mazes and the seamless creation of moments that appear and disappear effortlessly.

This helped emphasise the elemental magical themes of the story, complemented by the thoughtful production design from The Watermill’s adult support team.

While every performance was of the highest standard for any youth production, special mention must go to the young actors taking on the responsibility of the lead roles.

Grace Moran’s Connie drew out the complexity of a child in crisis – showing a tough, independent and sassy façade belying the pain and vulnerability beneath.

George Craik (who also assisted with the sound design) and Katie McGall showed extraordinary physicality as the Monster, perfectly pitching their interpretation to simultaneously highlight the power and the ephemeral nature of the ancient yew tree.

Anwen Davies was truly exceptional as Connie’s mother, reconciling her own suffering with wanting to protect her daughter. She showed incredible maturity and nuance in a performance one might expect from an actor with years more experience.

Likewise, Joshua Allen as Connie’s absent father and Ella Wilson, as her maternal grandma were able to portray complex relationships within tragic circumstances, with empathy and understanding.

Emma Kirkaldy, Sophie Jenner and Alexander Lees were the perfect trio of bullies, making Connie’s life hell , while Mia Pitts reflected the strength of her best friend Lily, standing by her through thick and thin.

Mabel Rayner was sensitive and understanding as teacher Miss Godfrey, while Harrison Morris’ Mr Marl was gently comic, providing light relief without stealing the show.

The three Storytellers showed incredible physical control and ensemble skill, working together with the rest of the company to create so many visually arresting moments within the play.

Congratulations to this truly excellent company and to director Angharad Arnott Phillips (with support from Matty Green) for a powerful and affecting production.

TONY TRIGWELL-JONES

Who

The youth theatre meets on weekday evenings and Saturday mornings. The group devises its own work and works with the professional production team to produce main house youth theatre shows.

There are three groups, for 6-11, 11-15 and 16 to early 20s. For more information, contact Ade Morris on 01635 45834.

Previous productions

Cyrano de Bergerac, 30th October to 2nd November 2019. See the review in the archive.
Moonfleet, 3rd to 6th April 2019. See the review in the archive.
Easy Virtue, 7th to 10th November 2018
Digging for Victory, 7th to 10th March 2018. See the review in the archive.
Our Town, 8th to 11th November 2017
Ann Veronica, 29th March to 1st April 2017
Ubu Roi, 9th to 12th November 2016. See the review in the archive.
The Railway Children, 6th to 9th April 2016. See the review in the archive.
Gormenghast, 11th to 14th November 2015. See the review in the archive.
The Wolves of Willoughby Chase, 25th to 28th March 2015
Twelfth Night, 12th to 15th November 2014. See the review in the archive.
Life Lessons, 26th to 29th March 2014. See the review in the archive.
You Can't Take It With You, 13th to 16th November 2013. See the review in the archive.
David Copperfield, 27th to 30th March 2013. See the review in the archive.
The Government Inspector, 14th to 17th November 2012. See the review in the archive.
Writers' Block, 28th to 31st March 2012. See the review in the archive.
The Clodly Light Opera and Drama Society, 9th to 12th November 2011. See the review in the archive.
The Girl Who Never Forgot, 30th March to 2nd April 2011. See the review in the archive.
Bullets and Beetroot Lips, 17th to 20th November 2010. See the review in the archive.
The Three Musketeers, 7th to 10th April 2010. See the review in the archive.
Lay Your Sleeping Head, 18th to 21st November 2009. See the review in the archive.
Around the World in 80 Days, 6th to 10th May 2009. See the review in the archive.
The Sirens' Call, 19th to 22nd November 2008
The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, 21st to 24th May 2008. See the review in the archive.
¡Donkey Hoo-Ha!, 30th May to 2nd June 2007. See the review in the archive.
Mary Kelly's Bed, 1st to 4th November 2006. See the review in the archive.
The Gilded Lilies, 26th to 29th October 2005. See the review in the archive.
The Odyssey, 4th to 7th May 2005. See the review in the archive.
Hope Springs, 14th to 17th July 2004. See the review in the archive.
Wallride, 29th October to 1st November 2003. See the review in the archive.
Accelerate, 9th to 12th July 2003. See the review in the archive.
Landmines and Chewing Gum, 20th to 23rd November 2002. See the review in the archive.
Fen, 6th to 9th February 2002. See the review in the archive.
Walk in the Shadow, 25th to 28th July 2001. See the review in the archive.
Dragon's Teeth, 22nd to 25th November 2000. See the review in the archive.

Hungerford Young Performers, Children's Theatre and Youth Theatre

The Community of Hungerford, who stage an annual musical (the Town Show) each year, have three groups for young people. The Hungerford Young Performers (ages 6 to 8 years), The Hungerford Children's Theatre (ages 9 to 13 years) and The Hungerford Youth Theatre (ages 14 to 21 years). All these groups meet in the John O' Gaunt Youth & Community Centre.

New members are always welcome. More information can be obtained from our website www.hungerfordtheatre.com. or by e-mailing our membership secretary:

Last productions

Dragon Days, 29th to 30th June 2019
In the pretty, alpine village of Stumbledorf (just a short ‘trip’ away), the overdramatic villagers await a hero to rescue them from the mythical creature whose presence overshadows their otherwise idyllic mountain home. Just in the nick of time, seemingly in fulfilment of an ancient prophecy given by three wizened old crones, Tommy Rumble and his fearsome mother stumble into Stumbledorf, which causes great excitement. Could Tommy finally be the answer to the village’s problems? Can he get fit in time to fight the dragon or will jealousy and mischief thwart his heroic exploits? Has the dragon really developed a taste for goats, or is it just a social media feeding frenzy? Will the village ever be free of its Dragon Days? There’s only one way to find out… A Children's Theatre production.

Chicago, 29th to 30th June 2019
For razzle dazzle and All That Jazz, don’t miss this High School production of the Broadway classic Chicago. Set during the roaring 1920s jazz era, Chicago tells the story of Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly, two murderesses in Cook County Jail. Driven by ambition, both women try to grab the spotlight, whilst trying to clear their names. A Youth Theatre production.

Review of Madagascar

10th to 11th June 2017.

Review from the Newbury Weekly News.

They really moved it, moved it

Hungerford's young actors really smash the Madagascar musical

Community of Hungerford Theatre Company Children's Theatre: Madagascar A Musical Adventure Jr, at Herongate, Hungerford, on Saturday, June 10, and Sunday, June 11

This show, presented by the Children's Theatre, the junior branch of the Community of Hungerford Theatre Company, was based on the popular series of animated films, shown in cinemas a few years ago.

It presented a cast of around 30 young actors and, although no choreographer was listed in the programme, it seems safe to assume that the choreography was worked out by director Hoffi Munt with input, no doubt, from her assistants, Roushka Westall and Jane Munt. Certainly quite a bit of carefully arranged movement around the stage was needed and indeed achieved, with some scenes having around 28 young actors on stage at the same time.

The main characters – Alex the lion (Eleanor White), zebra Marty (Martha Gayer), Gloria the hippo (Honor Patterson) and giraffe Melman (Tayisha Flower) – did well as a quartet of zoo animals who find themselves caged on an ocean liner and, after taking over the ship, end up in Madagascar.

Seven youngsters played the parts of the lemurs, all decked out with suitable black-rimmed eyes and joining in the dancing and stage movement with obvious enjoyment.

Bella Schofield had fun with the part of King Julien, hamming it up and doing the jokes with Maurice, played heartily by Barney Bennyworth as her sidekick.

There was plenty of singing, dancing, acting and – an extra bonus – a series of exercises featuring handstands and complete somersaults.

The line-ups on stage, the set pieces involving much movement in a certain direction and the discipline of all the actors was most impressive.

It comes back to that uncredited choreography, but whoever was responsible for that did very well indeed.

Most likely, as previously suggested, it was a group effort.

Although uncredited in the programme, Madagascar was written by Kevin Del Aguila, with music by Joel Someillan and George Noriega.

From the volatile singing of Move It, to the enthusiastic well-drilled dancing, and not forgetting an authentic-looking penguin shuffle, this was a well-produced and lively show.

DEREK ANSELL

Previous productions

Children's Theatre: Seussical Jr, 9th to 10th June 2018
Young Performers: The Gingerbread Man and Other Stories, 11th July 2018
Youth Theatre: Private Peaceful, 13th to 14th July 2018
Children's Theatre: Madagascar A Musical Adventure Jr, 10th to 11th June 2017
Children's Theatre: Wind in the Willows, 13th to 14th June 2014
Young Performers: The Princess and the Pauper, 12th and 14th June 2014
Young Performers: Charlie and the Beanstalk, 28th April 2012
Youth Theatre: James and the Giant Peach, 26th to 27th April 2012
Children’s Theatre: The Dracula Rock Show, 10th July 2010
Youth Theatre: The Cleaners, 10th to 11th June 2010
Young Performers: Grimm Tales, 20th March 2010
Young Performers: The Fate of King Minos, 28th March 2009
Children’s Theatre: Snow-White and the Seven Dwarfs, 5th July 2008
Young Performers: Beowulf, 29th March 2008
Children’s Theatre: Romeo and Juliet the Musical, 7th July 2007
Youth Theatre: Two Short Socks, 6th July 2007
Young Performers: Tattybogle, 17th March 2007
Young Performers: The Selfish Giant, July 2006
Children's Theatre: Scheherazade, Tales of Arabian Nights, July 2006
Children's Theatre: Alice, 2005
Youth Theatre: Ritual For Dolls, 8th July 2005
Youth Theatre: The Gut Girls, 6th to 7th June 2005
Young Performers: The Piper, Easter 2005
Children's Theatre: Cinderella, 2004
Young Performers: Hoodwinked, July 2004
Youth Theatre: Daisy Pulls It Off, 22nd to 23rd July 2004
Children's Theatre: Card Play, 19th to 20th July 2004
Youth Theatre: Once a Catholic, 8th and 9th July 2003
Young Performers: Whoops -a- Daisy Angel, 16th December 2002
Children's Theatre: The Spell of Sleeping Beauty 12-13 July 2002
Youth Theatre: You Me and Mrs Jones 12-13 July 2002.

Whippersnapper

Whippersnapper is a Wantage based youth theatre company whose aim is to give teenagers with a love of theatre the opportunity to involve themselves in the nitty-gritty of putting on plays in as professional a way as possible. The organiser of this group is Margaret Bateman, 01235 762992.

Next production

A Tale of Two Cities, 4th to 6th November, 19:30, at Lains Barn, Wantage
A Domino Players production.
By Charles Dickens, adapted by Matthew Francis. Set in London and Paris before and during the French Revolution, it depicts the plight of the French peasantry under the oppression of the French aristocracy in the years leading up to the revolution, the corresponding brutality demonstrated by the revolutionaries toward the former aristocrats in the early years of the revolution, and a number of unflattering social parallels with life in London during the same time period (hence the work's title). It follows the lives of several protagonists through these events, most notably Charles Darnay, a French once-aristocrat who falls victim to the indiscriminate wrath of the revolution despite his virtuous nature, and Sydney Carton, a dissipated British barrister who endeavours to redeem his ill-spent life out of love for Darnay's wife, Lucie Manette. Tickets £8 and £7 concessions.

Previous productions

The Accrington Pals, 21st June 2009, at Blue Boar Barn, Newbury Street, Wantage
By Peter Whelan. A funny, moving account of life (and death) in the First World War.

A Midsummer Night's Dream, 21st June 2008, at Wantage Civic Hall
On Midsummer Night, 21st June, the company will bring its ingenuity and exuberance to Wantage Civic Hall for a one off performance of (what else?) A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare. The space will be transformed by youthful sleight of hand into a woodland glade peopled by trouble making fairies, confused lovers and an ambitious, if less than skilful, troupe of village thespians.

The Musical Youth Company of Oxford

We produce and perform high quality shows and concerts that entertain audiences throughout Oxfordshire and beyond, organise summer camps, social events, music and theatre workshops and run our very own "Oscars" event.

We currently rehearse from 19:00 to 21:30 Wednesdays at Cherwell School, and on most Mondays at Marston United Reformed Church.

Our web site is at www.myco.org.uk.

Oxford Playhouse

For details of youth events, see the Oxford Playhouse web site.

Oxford Youth Theatre (Pegasus)

Oxford Youth Theatre is open to anyone between the ages of 10 to 25. Membership costs £20 per year and there are no auditions. Make sure you're on the mailing list to receive details of projects by contacting Yasmin Sidhwa, Louise Barrett or calling 01865 792209. Also see the web site at www.pegasustheatre.org.uk.

Starmaker

Last production

Annie, 12th to 16th October 2004, at the Wilde Theatre, South Hill Park, Bracknell
Based on the cartoon strip Little Orphan Annie it was translated into a musical by Martin Charnin. The musical Annie tells a Depression-era rags-to-riches story of an eleven-year-old orphan who yearns to escape from the orphanage run by the mean-spirited Miss Hannigan. When Daddy Warbucks decides to adopt Annie, her dream comes true! Songs include Tomorrow, We'd Like To Thank You, Little Girls, I Think I'm Gonna Like It Here, Easy Street, You Won't Be An Orphan For Long, You're Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile and Annie. A musical treat for the whole family.

Previous productions

Once a Catholic, 22nd to 26th June 2004, at Studio Theatre, South Hill Park, Bracknell

Songs from the Musicals - Act Two, 8th May 2004, at Bearwood Theatre, Winnersh
Pirates of Penzance (Broadway version), 2nd to 6th March 2004, at the Wilde Theatre, Bracknell.

See our web site at starmakeruk.org. We are totally dedicated to the Youth Theatre Scene and not an "attachment" to an Adult Society. We have had a large number of members go onto various performing arts colleges all over the country and subsequently onto some major shows / films / TV etc. Our most famous "graduate" was Kate Winslett.

The main rehearsals are in Reading in the Avenue School not far from Madejski Stadium (Wednesdays, Fridays, Sundays). The various Schools (Easter, Summer, SPACE) are held all over the Reading area. The major (and some Minor) performances are at the Wilde Theatre at
Bracknell.

Over the past 15 years, Starmaker have staged over 60 productions at venues including: The Hexagon, Reading; The Wilde Theatre, Bracknell; Kenton Theatre, Henley-On-Thames; Corn Exchange, Newbury; The Fulcrum, Slough; Magnet Leisure Centre, Maidenhead; Shinfield Theatre, Reading; and The Desborough Suite, Maidenhead.

WOAPA – West Oxfordshire Academy of Performing Arts

WOAPA is a part-time Theatre School for children aged 4–16 years which operates at evenings and weekends during the standard academic term. Providing quality tuition in the three disciplines of Singing, Dance and Drama, our class sizes are deliberately kept small to ensure that each child receives the individual attention they deserve. Our classes are led by experienced and enthusiastic tutors whose skills in working with young people enable our students to develop at their own pace, and encourage them to reach their true potential. With no entry auditions or previous experience required, whether your child dreams of a career in performing arts or simply wants to make new friends, WOAPA will boost your child’s confidence… and they’ll have loads of fun!

Each week, students attend three, 1-hour sessions of drama, singing and dance. We promote a positive environment - where students have fun as they celebrate their individuality and achievements. Working as part of a team, students are encouraged to be creative and value the experience of working closely with others towards a common goal. Skills are developed and refined, enabling students to become multi-disciplined, all-round performers.

For our young performers (aged 4-6) all three elements of singing, dance and drama are combined in a weekly, 1-hour, fun-packed session. We offer the opportunity for your child to stretch their imagination and nurture their social skills including communication and concentration.

Watch as your child develops…

Increased confidence
Growing self-esteem
An expanding imagination
Creativity
Co-ordination

AND a whole new set of friends!

Reports, Awards and Exams

In order to share our students’ progress we arrange informal performances for families. Parents also receive written reports at regular intervals. WOAPA provides its own internal awards for achievement in class. For those students wishing to undertake more formal assessments, exams are arranged for both LAMDA and Arts Awards.

Added benefits

Students and parents have exclusive access to a members'-only area on our website, listing details of auditions, theatre trips, special events, and more!

If you’re looking for drama activities for kids in the Witney area, WOAPA – West Oxfordshire Academy of Performing Arts is for you!

Take a look at our website – www.woapa.co.uk