The Marine Theatre Bar

Based at the Marine Theatre, LYT is creating an ensemble of well-skilled and motivated young actors between the ages of 5 and 21. Running since 2005, LYT's professional tutors use a multi-faceted approach to create an environment in which members can explore and fulfil their potential. Voice work, improvisation, movement, mime and stage combat are just some of the skills taught. Our productions have ranged from 'Midsummer Night's Dream' and 'Macbeth' for the Shakespeare Schools Festival to 'Just' by Ali Smith, 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory' and our own versions of Peter Pan, Robin Hood, the Little Mermaid, 'Fantastic Mr Fox', 'Alice' and Philip Pulman's 'Clockwork'. Older members took part in the National Theatre Connections programme last year, performing 'The Beauty Manifesto' at the Marine Theatre and at Bristol Old Vic. The aim is to introduce the company to the best of modern and classical theatre practice and technique. Performance skills are known to boost confidence and self-esteem, and we hope our members will be able to transfer these skills to work done in school, university or vocational drama training. We also offer opportunities to learn about stage management, including lighting and sound. We are very proud that four of our members have been selected to join the National Youth Theatre, and at least two of our members have chosen 'Theatre' as a career. Saturday morning classes over three terms from September to June/July form our core programme. There are 3 classes: LYT Beginners is for 5 - 7s, YLYT is for the 8-11s and LYT is for the 12-16s. At 14 members may become part of LYT Company. There are also one-off workshops and a Summer School. We have a tradition of supporting local events ranging from Carnival to the Fossil Festival and ArtsFest. All these give members varied experiences from acting on stage to street theatre.