A West Kirby Youth theatre which has helped kick start careers in Hollywood and the West End is reopening and looking for new members.
Off the Ground Youth Theatre has been unable to put on productions for the last 18 months due to the pandemic.
It is now restarting, with spaces available for all ages.
Production manager Connor Wray told West Kirby Today: “The first Covid-19 lockdown arrived just days after our final youth theatre performance of Monkey! in 2020, and days before our upcoming production of Wind in the Willows, which has now sadly had to be cancelled. Unsure when we would be able to return, we took to operating sessions online, which was a new and creative challenge for all involved.
“We are glad to have made it back and to be able to offer face-to-face sessions once more. It’s an exciting period, with plenty of productions coming up, and the opportunity to attract new students to join our core of existing talent is very exciting indeed.”
All the sessions, whether they are Shakespeare or stage combat, are led by current practising industry professionals – actors, writers, musicians and directors.
Older members and graduates of the youth theatre often go on to claim their first credits with Off the Ground Theatre, on their annual touring productions. It has strong ties to Young Everyman & Playhouse, LJMU and LIPA.
Connor added: “Recent graduates have gone on to appear in TV dramas such as Broadchurch and Game of Thrones, while others have appeared in Hollywood films, TV commercials and West End stage productions.
“We don’t require any experience for new students to join, nor do they ask for any auditions as part of the application process. The only requirements are a willingness to try new things and get involved, as well as a good work ethic.”
Sessions take place from 6-9pm on a Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday in the drama studio at Calday Grammar School.
Tuesday’s group caters for ages 10-14, Wednesday for 17+, and Thursday for 14-17.
For more information visit https://www.offtheground.co.uk/
