How is the Young Company different to other youth theatres?
The Young Company is different to traditional youth theatres because the work produced by the groups is very much led by our members, with support and direction from our workshop leaders. In this way, the Young Company functions much in the way that a professional theatre company does, with members collaborating across various specialisms such as performing, writing, directing or tech.
Will I learn theatre skills at Young Company sessions?
Theatre making requires all sorts of skills. From voice work, characterisation, physical theatre and acting techniques, our teaching staff can recognise which skills need developing so that individuals and groups can perform their best and work well in a team. Our young company focuses on the basics of theatre making, including storytelling and role play, acting techniques and lots of games!
Can I perform in a production?
The work of the Young Company is diverse – members may end up performing in smaller show backs at the end of terms, as part of festivals, in touring shows, or full-scale productions in the Bridge House Theatre or Warwick Hall. We want to give our members ownership of the performances, and then step back and see what they create!
What if I don’t want to work in the theatre when I leave school?
Our sessions are not just for those wanting to pursue a career in the performing arts; being part of a group like the Young Company stimulates discussion and debate, challenges your ideas about the world, develops your confidence and communication skills, and most importantly gives you a whole new set of friends!
Can I come along to try out a session?
We usually hold taster sessions towards the end of a term for new members to start after the Christmas, Easter or Summer breaks. Depending on how many spaces we have available, you will either be invited into one of the weekly sessions with the existing group, or you may be part of a smaller session with other new members.
How much does it cost and when is it?
We meet on a Saturday morning during term time, at the Warwick School and King's High School drama departments.
Junior Company (ages 8-11) 9:30am-11:00am
Intermediate Company (ages 11-14) 9:30am-11:30am
Senior Company (ages 14+) 10:00am-12:00pm
Termly fees:
Junior Company - £50
Intermediate and Senior Company - £70
We also have bursaries available for those who receive Pupil Premium, or for Warwick Schools Foundation students who receive school bursaries.
How do I join?
To become a member of the Young Company, you will usually attend a taster session before confirming your place. This gives you the chance to meet our workshop leaders and other young people, and to experience a typical session.
For further details contact Imogen Tong at i.tong@warwickschool.org
