National Youth Theatre of Wales members go behind the scenes with National Theatre and Wales Millennium Centre’s ‘Nye’
National Youth Theatre of Wales (NYTW) is excited to launch its 2024 membership offer with Professional Pathways run in partnership with Theatr Clwyd and in association with Wales Millennium Centre (WMC) with this unique opportunity to engage in an intensive day of workshops led by industry professionals. Designed to nurture young talent across Wales, Professional Pathways is open to 16–22-year-olds, who want to gain performance skills and learn about the theatre industry including backstage roles.
In May, more than 40 young people watched one of the hottest tickets in town, as they went behind-the-scenes at the latest National Theatre (NT) and Wales Millennium Centre (WMC) co-production of ‘Nye’. Starring Michael Sheen, himself an alumnus of NYTW, the cast and creative team also featured several NYTW alumni including Remy Beasley, Lee Mengo, Dyfan Dwyfor and Mali O’Donnell.
“National Youth Theatre of Wales is one of the most special things I ever did and I carry it with me, to this day”
Led by Nye’s Associate Director, Francesca Goodridge and Wales Millennium Centre’s Bablu Shikdar the NYTW 24 members took part in script and physical theatre workshops based on scenes from Nye alongside sessions on presenting, podcasting, and career pathways, offering invaluable insights into the diverse avenues within the arts.
The cohort were also given an insight into the exciting new plans for the creative spaces and opportunities for young people within Wales Millennium Centre
Other highlights of the day included access to the Nye cast’s pre-performance preparations along with a Q&A session with cast members and creative team on the production. This provided an inspiring platform for NYTW’s young members to connect with seasoned professionals and gain first-hand knowledge of the industry. The young participants also enjoyed watching Nye in the Donald Gordan Theatre, which was met with great enthusiasm.
During the Q&A session, alumni Remy Beasley said: “National Youth Theatre of Wales is one of the most special things I ever did and I carry it with me, to this day. Most of my best friends that I have now are from National Youth Theatre of Wales. These relationships will go on for decades of your life. It’s a very special place to be.”
NYTW Producer, Megan Childs said: “This was the perfect start to the NYTW 2024 programme, bringing past and present NYTW members together through this landmark NT and WMC play by Tim Price, himself a writer of past NYTW productions. We’re very grateful for the generosity the Nye company and Wales Millennium Centre have shown in throwing their practice and doors open to the next generation of Welsh artists, offering the perfect balance of inspiration and skills development that Professional Pathways aims for”
NYTW extends heartfelt thanks to NT and WMC for making this enriching experience possible.