Holybourne Theatre

Scene Three: Youth Theatre

1976 was a momentous year for Holybourne Dramatic Club. Dawn Groves, a talented ex-professional stage actress, founded the highly successful youth theatre; a section that has become a nursery for Holybourne Theatre adult productions.

The youth section still forms an integral part of the theatre today. Holybourne Youth Theatre grows each year and never ceases to amaze, catering for ages six to seventeen. Saturday morning classes are split into four age groups to cater for over 100 members.

Each session covers all aspects of theatre, drama, dance and music. Sessions include drama games, improvisation and acting techniques, character development, vocal techniques (voice projection and singing), 2003 choreography and staging and directing of plays, each presented in a way which is relevant to the ages of the children.

Holybourne Theatre is fortunate to have numerous CRB checked matrons to supervise the children and young adults during the classes and shows in accordance with current regulations. Holybourne Theatre believes its group of volunteers are some of the best around.

Many of our youth members progress into acting and directing in the adult section and many others continue their drama studies through college and university.

At this moment there are several ex Youth Theatre members studying drama at Alton College and others at university. Among these successes, Holybourne Theatre has ex youth members who have pursued  professional careers in the theatre. Nick Haffenden has become a stage manager at the Bristol Old Vic, Ashley Christmas is busy on the road with a professional touring company, and Catherine McCormack blossomed in front of the cameras as the love interest of Mel Gibson in Braveheart, and starred with Robert Redford and Brad Pitt in Spy Game.

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