Why Youth Theatre Matters with Craig Randle and Matthew Hawksworh

What role does youth theatre play in shaping us, not just as performers, but as people?In Episode 2 of Open House, the official NYMT podcast, host David and NYMT Young Company member Abbie Palliser Kehoe are joined by Craig Randle from Birmingham Hippodrome and Matthew Hawksworth from Chichester Festival Theatre to explore the impact of regional youth theatre.From school productions and first performances to local youth theatre groups and professional arts venues, Craig and Matthew reflect on their own journeys into theatre and the role youth theatre plays in building confidence, creativity, friendships and life skills. They also discuss accessibility, training, community, and the many different pathways young people can take into the arts, both on stage and behind the scenes.They also share how youth theatre can open doors, support personal growth and help young people find a sense of belonging, whether or not they go on to work professionally in the industry.A must-listen for young performers, parents, youth theatre members, educators and anyone passionate about the importance of creative opportunities for young people.In this episode:How Craig and Matthew first discovered theatre and youth performanceThe difference youth theatre can make in a young person’s lifeHow to find and join a local youth theatreWhy youth theatre is about more than just performingThe life skills, confidence and friendships it can buildHow Birmingham Hippodrome and Chichester Festival Theatre support young peopleWhy accessibility and bursaries matter in youth theatreThe different theatre careers young people can explore beyond performingGuests: Craig Randle – Education Manager at Birmingham Hippodrome Matthew Hawksworth – Head of Children and Young People’s Programme at Chichester Festival TheatreHosts:David Grant – NYMT Associate ProducerAbbie Palliser Kehoe – NYMT Young Company member and co-hostFollow / find out more:NYMT: nymt.org.ukInstagram: @NYMTukTikTok: @nymtUKDavid: @david.z.ukAbbie: @palliserabbie Birmingham Hippodrome: birminghamhippodrome.com Chichester Festival Theatre: cft.org.uk