Latest news with #SummerSchools
Yahoo
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
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.


Pembrokeshire Herald
22-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Pembrokeshire Herald
Something for everyone at the Torch Summer School
WITH the summer holidays on the horizon, the Torch Theatre in Milford Haven is once again preparing to open its doors for a season of creativity, performance and fun. Whether you're planning an exotic getaway or opting for a staycation closer to home, the Torch's popular Summer Schools promise to fill August with exciting activities and memories to last a lifetime. Over the years, the Torch Theatre has earned a strong reputation for delivering high-quality summer programmes for children and young people. Now, with the addition of an adult summer school, the Torch is proud to offer something for everyone aged seven and over. 'Come and join our fun-packed creative sessions, which include performing in our studio theatre for family and friends,' said Tim Howe, Senior Manager for Youth and Community at the Torch. 'We've got opportunities for adults and children to get inspired and express themselves artistically. With storytelling adventures, plays produced in a week, and workshops on writing, directing and performance, we know there's something for everyone.' Mr Howe added: 'Led by professionals with international experience and top drama school training, our summer schools are open to all. There's no audition, and no previous experience is needed. We're committed to inclusivity and will make reasonable adjustments so that everyone can enjoy a fulfilling experience.' The Torch Summer Schools 2025: Dramatic Detectives For Year 3 to Year 6 (ages 7–11) A series of mysterious crimes has rocked the land of make-believe. But what happened, who's responsible, and can it be stopped in time? Through creative play and storytelling, children will work together to crack the case. Sessions run daily from 10:00am to 3:00pm, Monday 4 to Friday 8 August. Playmakers For Year 7 to Year 13 (ages 11–18) Take on the exciting challenge of learning and performing a contemporary play in just one week. Participants will get involved in every aspect of the production – from casting and costumes to props and music. Sessions run from 10:00am to 4:00pm, Monday 11 to Friday 15 August. Show Off! Ages 18+ Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to brush up on your skills, the adult summer school offers a supportive environment to explore writing, performance and direction. The programme concludes with a showcase performance in the studio theatre. Evening sessions run from 6:30pm to 9:00pm on Thursdays 7, 14, 21 and 28 August, with a final performance on Saturday 30 August. Tim concluded: 'Our Summer Schools are always incredibly popular, so early booking is recommended. You can find more information and book your place at or call our friendly Box Office team on 01646 695267.' What are you waiting for? Try something new this summer – and make the Torch Theatre part of your August adventure.