3 days ago
Youngsters to perform alongside West End stars at Reading theatre
Young performers will have the chance to train alongside West End stars in Reading this summer.
Reading Rep Theatre's Summer Schools offer a rare opportunity for children across Berkshire to learn and perform inside a professional theatre.
The week-long workshops, open to ages five to 17, will be held at Reading Rep's King's Road venue and led by West End actors and creative teams.
Sam Amestoy, youth theatre lead at Reading Rep, said: "This summer at Reading Rep will be our biggest yet, with a brilliant selection of workshops led by incredible industry professionals.
Reading Rep Theatre (Image: Google Maps) "Whether you're looking to learn from West End stars, thrive in creating your own play, or have lots of fun… there is something for everyone.
"We are extremely proud to be able to offer such a broad variety of workshops this summer for children of all ages.
"And we absolutely cannot wait to get started. So don't miss out, book now and see you this summer."
Workshops include Under The Sea! for ages five to 10, where children will create a musical inspired by films like Moana and The Little Mermaid.
They will also design sets, props, and costumes, and perform in the theatre at the end of the week.
Older participants, aged 11 and above, can take part in Play In A Week, working with West End actor Mabli Gwynne to devise and perform an original play.
Paul Stacey, artistic director of Reading Rep, said: "Inspiring the next generation and cultivating creativity from a young age is at the heart of everything we do.
"Our Summer Schools offer children an extraordinary chance not just to dream, but to step onto the stage alongside West End talent.
"It's thrilling, it's transformative, and it's precisely what makes Reading Rep so special."
Other workshops include Summer In Song and Musical Mayhem for neurodivergent young people, both run in partnership with Make/Sense Theatre and featuring West End performers and musical directors.
Dahl's Phizz-Whizzing Kiddles On Stage!, for ages five to 10, invites children into the world of Roald Dahl through games, creative activities, and performance.
For older children, the West End Experience returns, offering a week of singing, dancing, and behind-the-scenes insights from theatre professionals.
The week concludes with a musical showcase featuring songs from Grease, Six, and Phantom of the Opera.
Industry professionals involved include Karen Wilkinson, who will be joining the West End Experience and Make Sense camps, and Mervin Noronha, who will also take part in the West End Experience camp.
The first camps will begin on July 28, with the final camps running from August 11.
