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Blackpool Grand Theatre relaunches the Grand Young Company (GYC) which will offer high-quality training and artist development opportunities to young people aged 14 to 19 who have an interest in working towards future, creative careers in theatre-making, performance and beyond.
The new class of 2023-2024 (applications now closed) will have the opportunity to take part in a fun and exciting programme of activity consisting of creative and practical sessions, focused on building skills in professional performance and contemporary, collaborative theatre-making practice, delivered by leading artists and theatre companies from across the UK. The group will also perform a new play as part of the nationwide National Theatre Connections Festival.
“I’m thrilled that we’re able to relaunch the Grand Young Company this Autumn. As a former member of the National Youth Theatre and National Youth Music Theatre myself, I know just how important it is for young people to be able to access high-quality opportunities to explore and develop their performance and theatre-making craft, to be inspired by experienced professionals, and to have pathways for future career opportunities whilst having fun, making new friends, and furthering their sense of belonging as an important and integral part of their local professional theatre.” Adam Knight, Chief Executive of Blackpool Grand Theatre
We look forward to sharing news of the Grand Young Company over the coming months.
(Main Image iStock)
More About the Grand Young Company
Company members benefit from the Blackpool Grand’s unique ability to align the activity in the Theatre’s main stage and Studio spaces. The new programme allows the opportunity to watch visiting productions during their residency, in addition to bespoke workshops with cast members and creative teams, further enriching the development journey.
WHO IS THE GRAND YOUNG COMPANY FOR?
If you are aged between 14 and 19 and have an interest in theatre and performance, the Grand Young Company is for you! It doesn’t matter if you don’t have any previous experience – as long as you’re passionate about theatre, you’re welcome to join us.
WHAT DO WE DO?
At GYC, we offer exciting and accessible training in theatre-making and performance to the next generation of young artists in Blackpool.
By taking part in;
- practical workshops
- masterclasses
- public performances
GYC members will gain skills in;
- acting
- voice
- movement
- ensemble performance
- and much more
We work with top industry professionals from all over the UK, inspiring our members and giving them space to develop their artistry. We make learning fun while also promoting personal growth, making new friendships, and building resilience.
As a member, you’ll have the amazing chance to watch selected shows that are visiting the Grand Theatre and take part in workshops with the artists and creative teams who have made them. We also provide the chance to take part in national opportunities, expanding your horizons and making new connections beyond our hometown.
Join us, and together we’ll embark on a journey toward a future career in the arts!
WHAT KIND OF PROJECTS WILL I BE A PART OF IF I JOIN THE GRAND YOUNG COMPANY?
The GYC take part in lots of different projects and they will differ from year to year.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO BECOME A GRAND YOUNG COMPANY MEMBER?
Fees for the GYC can be paid upfront or broken down into instalments that suit you across the course of the year.
If you are successful at the audition and offered a place, the fee for the 2023/2024 season will be £300 per company member and the price includes all associated costs for taking part in the programme including:
- 4 skills development masterclasses
- 33 regular weekly sessions
- 1.5 weeks intensive rehearsal process
- 3 live performances
- performance insurances
- costuming for public performances
- tickets to see selected performances as part of the programme
After a successful audition, we will send you information on how to pay your fees and give you the following choices:
- Pay for the full year upfront when you join in October
- Pay for half of the year upfront in October and the second half of the year in February
- Pay monthly
- Pay weekly
WHAT IF I CAN’T AFFORD THE FULL COST OF THE FEES?
We believe that everyone deserves a fair chance to participate in the Grand Young Company, regardless of their background or financial situation and this is why we have a limited number of bursary places available for 2023/24 to those who need them most.
If you would love to join GYC but feel that the costs are too high, then we will try to help you break down financial barriers by awarding you with a free or half-price bursary place if you are successful at the audition.
If you would like to apply for a bursary place, please check the relevant box during your application and if you are successful at the audition, a member of the team will be in touch to discuss and agree on your bursary application in the strictest of confidence.
More details on eligibility for bursary places is available in our FAQ Sheet.
You will never be treated differently because you have applied for or received a bursary.
HOW DO I JOIN THE GRAND YOUNG COMPANY?
To become a member of GYC, you need to apply for a place at one of our Open Audition Workshops. We’re holding them at specific times of year that will be listed below when open.
WE’VE GOT YOUR BACK!
Your application is in safe hands! Our specialist team at Blackpool Grand Theatre will review it confidentially, ensuring your personal information remains secure. You’ll receive an outcome within 14 working days once you’ve submitted your form.
NEED SOME MORE INFORMATION BEFORE YOU APPLY?
Then click here to see our FAQ sheet which includes details of how our relaxed, low-key auditions work, what you need to prepare, plus loads more information including fees and bursaries.
