Fancy influencing the way that the New Wolsey Theatre works with young people?

Andrew Clarke

Fancy influencing the way that the New Wolsey Theatre works with young people? Then the theatre is looking for enthusiasts aged 13 to 25 to join its Young Board, a group of 10 to 15 who will come together to discuss what they want the New Wolsey to offer people of their age.

The New Wolsey Young Board will be a non-governing advisory body to the fully constituted Board of Trustees and will meet for 45 minutes before board meetings which take place every two months. Information will flow between meetings and a member of the young board will attend board meetings to represent the interests of the young board and report back to fellow members.

“The New Wolsey has a range of activities and initiatives designed to integrate young people into its decision making processes and to enable us to respond to their needs,” explains associate director Rob Salmon. “The Young Board is a formal, but hopefully relaxed, environment in which young people can make a positive contribution and have a real impact on how we function”

Each meeting of the young board will be followed by an activity designed to enhance understanding of theatre and to build the board's identity. Activities may include seeing shows or an opportunity to engage with other organisations and art forms.

Young board members will receive informal training in interpreting, understanding and applying their responsibilities in order to maximise the contribution they make to the organisation.

The New Wolsey is keen to hear from young people who feel they can make a contribution. Initially membership is limited to one year and attendance is flexible with the option to attend one or many meetings.

The first meeting of the Young Board takes place at the New Wolsey Theatre on Monday February 9 at 6pm. If you are interested or simply want to know more please email creativelearning@wolseytheatre.co.uk or call Laura Norman, Creative Learning Assistant, on 01473 295930.

The New Wolsey is also currently seeking application to join its Junior and Senior Youth Theatres and its Young Company. The Junior Youth Theatre is for primary school students aged 7 - 11 who want to learn more about theatre, make new friends and learn new skills - meeting on Saturday mornings.

The Senior Youth Theatre is for secondary school students aged 11 - 16 who want to develop their abilities as performers alongside a team of theatre professionals - meeting on Tuesday or Wednesday evenings.

The New Wolsey Young Company is for young adults aged 16 - 25 who want to meet regularly to develop their experience and skills as theatre makers. The Young Company will meet at the weekend and in school holidays.

Auditions take place on Sunday February 15 at New Wolsey Studio, St George's Street, Ipswich. If you are interested in auditioning please email creativelearning@wolseytheatre.co.uk to secure a slot.