Arts Council Support Material 23/24

In 2023/2024, the second cohort of Youth Theatre Ireland's Youth Board opted to extend their term to eighteen months. This allowed us for a longer handover period in order to creatively rethink the programme in great detail. As a result of this extra time, the Youth Board Programme is being rebranded to Youth Theatre Ireland's AMPLIFY programme. The programme is developing into a more structured approach akin to the Young Critics Programme. This follows from consultation with the National Youth Participation Office and Hub na nÓg. The hope is that this change will encourage greater participation and less drop-off.

In early 2024, the Youth Board presented the results of their sector-wide survey to both YTI staff and Youth Theatre Leaders nationwide. From this presentation the Youth Board decided on four key points which they disseminated through their own youth theatres to be asked/presented to local election candidates as they canvassed for the June 2024 Local Elections.

In February, the Youth Board were hosted by Senator Annie Hoey at Dáil Éireann for a tour of the Oireachtas and a discussion on the journey from youth theatre member to politician.

In July, members of the Youth Board attended our National Festival of Youth Theatres to co-deliver the Youth Theatre Members' Forum. This year however, the members' forum was a much larger event, involving all festival attendees as the organisation looks to draft a new strategic plan for 2025-2030.

The Youth Board also continued the important role of attending events on YTI's behalf over the last twelve months, including the launch of NYCI's State of our Young Nation report, DCEDIY's LGBTI+ Inclusion Strategy Consultation, and some members have taken part in the Leargas-funded Ripple Effect programme in association with the National Youth Council of Ireland.

It is our hope that the next iteration of the youth board, made up of an entirely new cohort, will benefit from the learning of the last three years and be able to engage more fully with the team and board of directors of YTI.

Feedback from members includes:

"I would say that it is great for people that have ideas on how to improve youth theatre across the country to be heard and make a change and it is also a great learning experience to learn more about YTI beyond your own youth theatre."

"It gives so many opportunities and meeting people from all over Ireland like I've met my best friends ever through it and I couldn't ask for any better people."

Child Safeguarding and Wellbeing Officer Cathal Thornton has delivered 12 Child Protection Awareness Programme Training days to a total of 120 participants in the last twelve months. This has resulted in Youth Theatre Ireland becoming one of the leading providers of Child Protection Training by volume.

The Child Protection Awareness Programme Training serves as an overview of Children First, as well as equipping participants to know how to handle a real-word child safeguarding scenario. The training is being delivered to all participants of the DFTC course, as a training day offered by YTI, and in a bespoke setting to member youth theatres who request the training. The latter is an excellent way for members to meet a member of the team and feel more connected to the wider community.

Feedback from participants includes:

"Excellent from start to finish. Plenty of time to explore questions and more complex issues."

"It was very comprehensive and well facilitated . Cathal had excellent delivery of sensitive topics, respectful mediating
with opposing opinions in the group, he effectively used his drama facilitation skills to use breath to focus and calm the group as well as effectively using short games and on task activities to energise the group. He knew well when to step away as well as when to step into discussions.
I have been to many refresher courses on child protection, but I feel due to Cathal's delivery and experience, I retained much more and walked away with greater confidence and understanding than from other training on same topic."

"A facilitation masterclass! We all really appreciated your depth of knowledge, easy delivery of difficult material and the care and time you gave it. Also the space to contribute, holding the energy and adding a lightness when it was needed.
I've done a few of these training sessions and this was on another level in terms of delivery and learning.
Makes me very proud and grateful (once again) to be associated with Youth Theatre Ireland. We're in very safe hands."

The Drama Facilitation Training Course is a cornerstone of Youth Theatre Ireland’s work and plays a pivotal role in achieving the goals and aspirations outlined in our Strategic Plan. As an organisation committed to empowering young people through youth theatre, this QQI Accredited training is a commitment to the long-term vision of providing high quality youth theatre experiences for young people across Ireland.


Now in its fourth year since being relaunched as a part-time training course in 2020, the DFTC this year received a record number of applications. These applications span across a diverse demographic in terms of both geographical origin and age group. We have increased the number of participants from the original ask of 16 in 2020 to now 24. We have also continued to support strategic partnerships between several participants and their County Arts Offices and Education Training Boards. These collaborations not only involved the promotion of the course but also encompassed provisions of support for participants hailing from their respective regions. This collaborative effort signifies an investment in local artists within these areas.

"The DFTC allowed me the space to learn and grow and believe in myself." - Course Participant


MENTOR PROGRAMME


Continuing from the preceding year's integration of the Mentorship component into the course, we have observed a heightened influence as participants of the course have progressed to collaborate with their mentors beyond the course framework. Additionally, a number of participants have been positively influenced and motivated to explore diverse approaches to engaging with young individuals and effectively facilitating drama.

Post Training Internship Building upon our previous successful endeavours, we have continued to develop a number of paid intern positions for present participants of the course within our annual National Festival of Youth Theatres. These roles grant participants a first-hand exposure to the organisational intricacies of the festival. Moreover, this initiative affords them the chance to network with fellow facilitators, interact with youth theatre leaders, and practically apply the insights gained from our training course. As the DFTC continues to grow we are now able to connect alumni from multiple years through this internship programme

"The DFTC had equipped me not only to facilitate a drama class but prepare a full course of workshops that I can take anywhere for any group and feel confident I have the tools to complete the brief" - DFTC Participant


CONCLUSION In Summary, the Drama Facilitation Training Course forms an essential pillar of Youth Theatre Ireland’s vision as it underpins sectoral development, drives artistic excellence, and ensures organizational effectiveness all with shared goal of empowering the voices of young people. As Youth Theatre Ireland continues its journey, its dedication to training will undoubtedly contribute to a vibrant and impactful youth theatre community.

Watch this video for more insight https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gXxVUHvI5AY

This programme, which took place from November 2023 to May 2024, brought together a diverse group of passionate theatre artists, directors, and facilitators, all dedicated to working with children and young people and eager to enhance their skills. The project was specifically designed to engage lesser represented voices as part of our commitment to increasing diversity amongst youth theatre facilitators.

The workshops were expertly facilitated by members of Youth Theatre Ireland and Graffiti’s core team, providing participants with invaluable insights and hands-on experience. Each session, hosted at Graffiti Theatre Company in Cork City, not only provided participants with a €125 stipend but also enriched their understanding of youth theatre facilitation, allowing them to build their own facilitator toolkit and confidently design and lead workshops.

"Graffiti Way has allowed me to reflect and reevaluate who I am as a facilitator and YT Leader. The programme made me think, play, and grow." - Graffiti Way Participant

A highlight of the programme was the opportunity for two participants to continue their journey with Graffiti on paid internships as well as awarding bursaries for four participants to attend Youth Theatre Ireland's "Leading On" training residential free of charge. These initiatives have successfully expanded Youth Theatre Ireland's pool of freelance facilitators, a testament to the programme's long-term impact on workforce development and diversity in the sector.

The inclusion of underrepresented communities has led to richer artistic experiences for both artists and audiences, while supporting the social mission of the theatre. The programme has fostered a more inclusive environment and set a new standard for diversity going forward, with participants bringing a wide range of perspectives and experiences that have enhanced Graffiti’s artistic innovation.

"My participation in the Graffiti: Way has helped me develop and grow as an artist. I am an immigrant artist who has had the opportunity to present my work to the community thanks to the workshop facilitation mentorship programme." - Graffiti Way Participant

Through the sharing of knowledge and expert mentorship, this collaboration between Youth Theatre Ireland and Graffiti Theatre Company has successfully contributed to long-term change within the youth theatre sector.

Development report Set 2024. Period covers from Aug 2023- Aug 2024

Youth Theatre Development.

A major element of Youth Theatre Ireland’s work is youth theatre development. In the main this is supporting individuals and community groups to establish sustainable youth theatres in their communities that align with the Criteria for Affiliation with Youth Theatre Ireland.

Youth Theatre growth, development and sustainability is a labour intensive endeavour that requires patience, grass roots cultivation and continued mentorship. To sustainably grow the number of affiliated youth theatres a proactive, innovative, and targeted approach is needed. This is achieved through focused stakeholder engagement, building leadership capacity, increased funding, and visibility & advocacy.

At present there are 29 “developing youth theatres” in the youth theatre development book. These “developing youth theatres” range from people who we have had one or two conversations with to those who are developing policies and building teams, to those that are close to affiliation.

Each of these leads in hugely demanding of time, energy and expertise. Development is done on a case by case , in a bespoke manner to respond to the needs of each individual organisation. This is done through countless emails and phone calls, zoom meetings, site visits and thorough feedback and support in writing policies, developing Governance structures and artistic mentorship.

From August 2023 – Sept 2024 , four youth theatres have become affiliated to Youth Theatre Ireland. This is in line with our projections from Aug 2023.

The timeline from initial conversation to full affiliation was on average 2 ½ years for each group. There is one outliner to this.

The affiliated groups are:

Castletownbere Youth Theatre

Established YT in West Cork in 2020. Developed during Covid19,initially supported by West Cork Arts Centre and Youth Theatre Ireland Grant from Creative Ireland. Now an Unincorporated Association with volunteer committee and paid facilitators. Currently has 12 members. Affiliated in Feb 2023 after several years of development work. Lead facilitator and main leader was participant on our Drama Facilitation Training Couse 2022-2023.Leaders and members starting to develop relationships with network of Cork youth theatres and attending Youth Theatre Ireland events. https://www.youththeatre.ie/news/castletownbere-youth-theatre-affiliates-to-youth-theatre-ireland

New Stage Youth Theatre, Foxford, Co. Mayo.

A volunteer led youth theatre, with one paid facilitator, run through an amateur drama society. Established as part of a new strategy by Mayo Co.Co. and aided by Youth Theatre Ireland, to support youth theatre in the county. Now part funded by Mayo Co.Co. Established in Oct 2022 and affiliated in April 2024, which is an exceptionally quick development timeline. Currently has 27 members in a junior and senior group. Lead facilitator completed our Drama Facilitation Training Couse 2023-2024. One member is a current Youth Theatre Ireland Young Critic.

https://www.youththeatre.ie/news/new-stage-youth-theatre-affiliates-with-youth-theatre-ireland

Breaking Barriers, Crann Centre, Ballincollig, Cork

Breaking Barriers is a creative and fun theatre group for young people with a neuro-physical disability and their families. Run as a programme of the Crann Centre, this youth theatre is unique in its offer. Supported in 2023 by a small development grant from Creative Ireland through Youth Theatre Ireland. Established organisation with paid staff and facilitators. Affiliated in March 2024 IT currently has 15 members. Youth Theatre Ireland Staff have been working closely with lead facilitator to audit the accessibility of Youth Theatre Ireland programmes.
https://www.youththeatre.ie/news/breaking-barriers-theatre-group-affiliates-with-youth-theatre-ireland

D.15 Youth Theatre, Blanchardstown, Co. Dublin.

A long established programme of Draiocht Blanchardstown. Professional, venue led youth theatre, with paid facilitators and managed by the Children’s and Youth Arts Officer. Currently has 29 members. Affiliated in April 2024, after 14 years of development work.

https://www.youththeatre.ie/news/d-15-youth-theatre-joins-youth-theatre-ireland

One youth theatre, Theatre Making and Citizenship Cork, was set to affiliate but a change in management at the venue has put this on the back burner for now.

A programme of the Everyman, Cork. Currently working with 15 young people. Professional venue led youth theatre. Programme Manager Maev O’Shea was participant on our Drama Facilitation Training Couse 2021-2022

In addition we are working closely with developing youth theatre groups , who are specifically working with ‘ seldom heard voices’ This work has been supported directly through grants from the Creative Ireland Programme.

Snapped Youth Theatre
Was established in 2023 in Thurles, County Tipperary, as part of the Meitheal 21 initiative. It serves as a sister youth theatre to Fracture Youth Theatre and works with young people aged 13-17 with Down Syndrome.

The youth theatre is run through Down Syndrome Tipperary and the Source Arts Centre, with guidance and support from Youth Theatre Ireland, all of which are deeply involved in the group's activities and growth. It currenly has 10 members, where each participant receives individual attention and support from the facilitators and volunteers.

Snapped Youth Theatre is committed to empowering young people with Down Syndrome by providing a safe, inclusive, and creative environment where they can explore and express their passion for theatre. We strive to nurture confidence, develop artistic skills, and build lasting friendships, while promoting inclusivity and celebrating diversity in the arts. Through collaboration with the Source Arts Centre, Meitheal 21, and Youth Theatre Ireland, we aim to inspire and support our members, helping them to achieve their full potential both on and off the stage.

We will aim bring this group into affiliation in 2025.

UCAN Youth Theatre in Lucan

Catchment area: Lucan/Adamstown. The total population at the last census for Lucan area is 57,550. Its Youth Population was at that time 13,659. The total youth population broken into age categories (10-24 age group =13,659) are as follows:
10 -14 YEARS = 5294
15-19 YEARS = 4579
20 -24 YEARS = 3796

The Ucan Youth Theatre will be aimed at young people aged 15 – 1 8 years, as this is the age category which is leased provided for outside of the sporting arena locally.

It will commence with introductory workshops from October 12th 2024.

Crosscare Lucan Youth Service led by the Ucan YDP has been building on the Arts Council’s initial support of the Big Tree project in 2021. Our projects and our work with young people have been a catalyst for positive change in Lucan/Adamstown, resulting in structured groups across the generations that identify the importance of putting arts and creativity at the centre of this growing community.

Croscare has engaged with Youth Theatre Ireland, and we has contributing €3,750 from Creative Ireland gran to support start-up costs for a new youth theatre in the Lucan/Adamstown area. Throughout September Crosscare will engage through schools, and audition applicants to commence their engagement with workshops for term 1 on Saturday 12th October.

Alan King has been working closely with Cross Care to get the youth theatre up and running in 2024. We would aim to affiliate this group I late 2025 or early 2026.


1 Youth Theatres are doing “Focused Work”

A further one youth theatres are developing policies, sourcing leaders, and recruiting young people. The timeline for these could be anywhere from 6 months to 2 years from now.

10 Youth Theatres have “stalled.”

Considerable time and energy has been invested in developing groups but this has now slowed down for a variety of reasons. These include a lack of interest, change in personnel or management, change in organisational focus, overworked in other areas or lack of funding. Many of these stalled groups, do not respond to communication offers from the development lead.

17 groups are in “early-stage development.”

These would include those where we held a number of meetings (online or in person) and would be talked through the affiliation process. They may be developing policies, or they may no longer continue to respond or develop any further.

In addition, there were 5 leads they were moved into the archive file. These were leads, that substantial time and attention was given to , but for a variety of reason, decided to no longer continue the process of affiliation. They may pick this up in the future but at present they don’t warrant a commitment of any further time on Youth Theatre Ireland’s behalf.

Programme details

The Youth Theatre Ireland Roadshow were piloted in 2023. The Roadshow provides an immersive experience that offers valuable insights into the unique work we do at Youth Theatre Ireland, exploring our methodologies, practice, and career opportunities within youth theatre.

One of Youth Theatre Ireland’s key responsibilities is youth theatre development.

Crucial to this development is fostering new relationships with artists, youth workers and stakeholders of all levels of experience and enhancing their understanding of youth theatre practice.

Engaging with youth workers and students across theatre or performance or arts and social studies courses is vital for youth theatre growth, sustainability, and individual career pathways.

The Youth Theatre Ireland Roadshow acts as a catalyst for students or staff as they navigate the exciting journey of their career progression.

These 1- 3 day events are designed to inspire, engage, and empower participants.

Typically, Alan King, Deputy Director, Dave Kelly, Youth Theatre Ireland’s National Training Co-Ordinator, and Barry Morgan, Special Projects Officer, would deliver the programme.

During the day, attendees will have the opportunity to:

Participate in a creative workshop that encourages creativity, teamwork, and self-expression, led by Dave and Barry. Here they will experience first-hand the dynamic approach of Youth Theatre Ireland.
Find out more about the QQ1 Level 6 training course
Gain an in-depth understanding of the impactful work Youth Theatre Ireland is doing across the country.

Evaluate their own practice and find out more about career opportunities across the youth theatre sector.
Network and make valuable industry connections

In 2024 Roadshows were delivered in conjunction with The Lír Academy and The Cavan Institute. Discussions are ongoing with The Leinster School of Music and Drama at Griffith College and Colaiste Dhulaigh to provide Roadshows there.


Evaluation insights

The Roadshows delivered 2023/2024 in partnership with a number of institutions and organisations. They were part of existing academic work, or were managed by another party. As such, evaluation insights were not available to Youth Theatre Ireland. From early 2025 onwards a simple evaluation form will be developed for participants

Over six months, the Young Critics participate in online workshops, visit Cork and Dublin for incredible meet ups, see some amazing shows, make new friends and learn the art of theatre criticism. It is open to youth theatre members who are interested in watching theatre, discovering how and why theatre is made, and learning how to critically discuss, analyse, and review this work. During the programme, young people see quality productions while developing their critical skills under the mentorship of international theatre critic and academic, Dr. Karen Fricker, and Youth Theatre Ireland’s National Programme Co-Ordinator Rebecca Feely.

The Young Critics 2023 culminated at Dublin Theatre Festival on October 8th. 14 young people from youth theatres across Ireland worked together for 6 months on theatre criticism, expressing their opinions, and learning how to analyse theatre productions. Two of the Young Critics reviews were selected and printed in the newpaper Totally Dublin. You can listen to a recording of the panel at Dublin Theatre Festival here: https://open.spotify.com/episo...

The youth theatres that took part in 2023 were:

County Limerick Youth Theatre
Fracture Youth Theatre, Co. Tipperary
Roscommon County Youth Theatre
Monaghan Youth Theatre
Making Waves Youth Theatre, Co. Wicklow
Activate Youth Theatre, Co. Cork
Act Out Youth Theatre, Co. Meath
Mr Sands Youth Theatre, Co. Wicklow
Dlr Mill Youth Theatre Company, Co. Dublin
W.A.C.T. Youth Theatre, Co. Wexford
Mountrath Youth Theatre, Co. Laois
Carlow Youth Theatre
Cabinteely Youth Theatre, Co. Dublin
Pod Youth Theatre, Co. Cavan

By the end of the programme in 2023, 100% of the participants evaluated stated that their knowledge of contemporary Irish theatre improved, their understanding of the different elements of theatre improved, their knowledge of the role of the theatre critic improved, they learned new skills they can bring back to their local youth theatres, they feel more capable of expressing their own opinions, and they made new friends.

In 2024, 26 young people applied to the Young Critics Programme and 14 were selected from the following youth theatres:

WACT Youth Theatre, Co. Wexford
Foxford Youth Theatre, Co, Mayo
POD Youth Theatre, Co. Cavan
Making Waves Youth Theatre, Co. Wicklow
MAD Youth Theatre, Co. Louth
Clare Youth Theatre
Sligo Youth Theatre
Nenagh Youth Theatre, Co. Tipperary
Act Out Youth Theatre, Co. Meath
Dreamstuff Youth Theatre, Co. Kilkenny
Fracture Youth Theatre, Co. Tipperary
Playacting Youth Theatre, Co. Kildare
Griese Youth Theatre, Co. Kildare
Activate Youth Theatre, Co. Cork

The group met online in May for the first time, and in June they travelled to Cork Midsummer Festival where they saw 3 shows and attended workshops led by Karen and Rebecca. The workshops explored what they observed about the shows, what elements worked well, what elements didn’t work well, how to research, and how to disagree with one another. The residency finished with a public panel where the Young Critics shared their thoughts on the shows they had seen. The panel was very well attended by youth theatre leaders, theatre makers, and other creatives. In October, the Young Critics will also attend Dublin Theatre Festival. This programme really embodies Youth Theatre Ireland’s values, elevating young people’s voices and giving them transferable skills that will benefit them academically, socially, personally, and artistically.

All food, accommodation, travel, ticket costs, are covered by Youth Theatre Ireland, so there is no financial barrier to anyone who wishes to participate. s

Quotes about the 2023 programme:

“Not only have I been given the privilege of seeing a wider variety of theatre in six months than I have in my whole life, but I have been given amazing opportunities to talk to the creative minds behind some of these pieces. I have learned so much about creating art and theatre, about how to critique it and how to present my own opinions on it, on paper and out loud.”

“Young critics has made me feel so seen, I feel now like I'm one of many and there are others like me out there, I feel artistically I'm flourishing, critically I'm climbing, and emotionally I'm thriving.”

“Seeing new types of theatre, and having theatre presented to me in new different ways has definitely broadened my interest and understanding of the art. I feel inspired to create my own work. I think I've started to love theatre even more since I started this programme.”

Pathways to Professionalism is a programme aimed at senior youth theatre members aged 16+ who are interested in pursuing a career in the arts. In February 2024, we ran a week-long creative residency comprised of playwriting, design, and directing workshops as part of Pathways to Professionalism. These workshops were designed to give the participants a taste of each creative area, enabling them to understand what a potential career in each area would look like. Each participant wrote a short scene or monologue, designed the set or costumes for one of the pieces written, and directed each other’s scenes. The week culminated in a sharing of this work.

31 youth theatre members applied for this week and 10 young people were selected. As this was the first time we ran this programme, we chose a smaller group to see how it would work. The young people were from the following youth theatres:

County Limerick Youth Theatre
W.A.C.T Youth Theatre, Co. Wexford
Clare Youth Theatre
M.A.D. Youth Theatre, Co. Louth
Nenagh Youth Theatre, Co. Tipperary
Act Out Youth Theatre, Co. Meath
Activate Youth Theatre, Co. Cork
Dublin Youth Theatre
Fracture Youth Theatre, Co. Tipperary
Playacting Youth Theatre, Co. Kildare

3 facilitators who specialise in each creative area were hired to lead the workshops: Carley Magee-Tollerton (Playwright), Jack Scullion (Designer), and Aoife Spillane-Hinks (Director). Rebecca Feely, National Programme Co-Ordinator, co-facilitated the workshops and co-ordinated the week.

All food, accommodation, and transport costs were covered as part of the residency, and the participants were also able to attend a professional production at the Gate Theatre one evening.

100% of the participants evaluated expressed: that they had a greater understanding of how theatre is made than before, learned new skills and made new friends, have a better understanding of their own creative process, they feel more confident collaborating with other creatives, and they feel more capable voicing their own opinion.

Quotes

“Overall, I made a lot of new friends and gained more confidence. Before I went on this trip, I was struggled to make/hold a conversation but thanks to socialising with people who had similar personalities and interests, I became more social. Thank you for honestly the best week of my life.”

“I feel more confident in my own ability to create for theatre productions and to share those creations. I've become more confident in sharing my work knowing that others have similar worries but are also proud of their work. I think I could definitely feel more confident in starting new projects and bringing them to others.”

“I've learned about the range of jobs involved in theatre and what branches of it I prefer and am best at. I now am sure that theatre is something I want to be involved in for the rest of my life!”

Leading On... presents a yearly residential event held over three days in June. The residential is a valuable opportunity for youth drama practitioners to explore new approaches, gather new material and develop their own artistic practice. The training is open to affiliated youth theatres as well as Organisational and Individual members.

In 2024 we held our annual Leading On… training weekend in Cork at UCC. This year we celebrated 10 years of the publication of the book Laying the Foundations: a guide to youth drama facilitation by Dave Kelly, and this book the basis for this training weekend. The training was delivered over 3 days with 21 participants from around Ireland. 11 participants were current youth theatre leaders in our affiliated youth theatres, and 10 participants are individual members and freelance youth theatre practitioners. Leading On... not only provides new skills, but also an opportunity for youth theatre practitioners to get to know one another, develop new connections, and engage in their own creativity.

Affiliated Youth Theatres represented were:

Griese Youth Theatre, Co. Kildare
Carlow Youth Theatre
Sligo Youth Theatre
Laois Youth Theatre
Activate Youth Theatre, Co. Cork
Kildare Youth Theatre
UCC Youth Theatre, Co. Cork
Castletownbere Youth Theatre, Co. Cork
Glengarriff Youth Theatre, Co. Cork
Making Waves Youth Theatre, Co. Wicklow

100% of participants evaluated reported that they plan to use the training in their artistic practice, that the training had practical relevance to their work, and that overall, the training was excellent.

Quotes

“The facilitation style, experience and confidence and his supportive nurturing approach, ensured that this training weekend was so successful and enjoyable. We'll done... magic.”

“The weekend was highly engaging, fun and inclusive. Dave was a generous and caring facilitator. I learned loads about structuring a workshop effectively to guide and support the artistic, personal and social development of participants. It did what it said on the tin!”

“Thank you for a fantastic weekend. It was great to be surrounded with like-minded people as it can be lonely out there.”

“I loved how this training encouraged community, creating a safe space, adaptability.”

“I absolutely loved the weekend - the delivery, pace and content was perfect - I felt engaged throughout. It was to me like an infusion of creative motivation for facilitators … I didn’t want it to end - what more can you say!”

The National Festival of Youth Theatres (NFYT) is the largest gathering of youth theatres in Ireland. The Festival, which happens in July every year, is a unique experience that provides young people with a fantastic opportunity to learn new skills, work with specialist facilitators, and get to know young people from youth theatres across the country.

Since 2011, NFYT takes place at Kilkenny College. It's an action packed, fully residential programme that includes specialist workshops, and full programme of social activities. 13 Youth Theatre Ireland affiliated youth theatres participate in 5 days of workshops and social get-togethers in the first week of July.

It’s the programme that brings together the largest gathering of youth theatre members, and youth theatre members as young as 12 can attend.

The Youth Theatres that participated in 2024 were:

Act Out Youth Theatre, Co. Meath
County Limerick Youth Theatre
Droichead Youth Theatre, Co. Louth
Kildare Youth Theatre
Laois Youth Theatre
Mr. Sands Youth Theatre, Co. Wicklow
Nenagh Youth Theatre, Co. Tipperary
POD Youth Theatre, Co. Cavan
Roscommon County Youth Theatre
UCC Youth Theatre, Cork
WACT Youth Theatre, Co. Wexford
Waterford Youth Arts
Wonder Youth Theatre, Co. Cavan

In 2024, we had 103 young people, 28 leaders, 11 facilitators and assistants, and 8 staff members on site for the festival. 5 workshop options were offered: Puppetry by Jo Dennehy, Having your Own Back by Oonagh McLoughlin, Streets Ahead by Nick Kavanagh, Musical Mania by Rian Cash and Ciara Laste, and Play Explorers by Ciara Fleming.

Young people are part of a core workshop group that works together and forms an ensemble over the course of the week, and at the end of the festival each workshop group shares some of the work they have been doing. Participants also get to test out the other workshops offered during Roving Skills and often this is popular with the leaders as well. The workshops are designed to give young people new skills, ideas, and allow them to step outside of their comfort zones.

The leaders programme was a mixture of workshops and talks with Youth Theatre Ireland staff, Leargas, as well as opportunities to share skills, bond, and get to know one another better.

A number of social events were held throughout the week including a variety night where youth theatre members could perform a skill for everyone, the production Yellow by Jody O’Neill was performed by Eleanor Walsh (former Kilkenny youth theatre member), and the week finished with a BBQ and party night.

This year, we also designated some of the rooms in Kilkenny college as social spaces where the participants could hang out in the evening, including: an arts and crafts room, pool room, kitchen, and quiet room. These proved to be very popular as they provided opportunities to be social with people from different youth theatres in smaller, low focus settings.

91% of participants evaluated felt like their creative skills and abilities improved over the course of the festival.

77% felt more confident mixing with new people and making new friends.

79% felt their ability to take risks in drama improved.

77% felt like they could adapt better to new situations and environments.

79% felt more confident over all.

95% felt like they were part of a wider youth theatre community.

100% had fun.

Quotes from Young People:

“At first, I was weary about coming to the festival but after the first day I didn’t want to leave. It made my group within my theatre so much closer, as well as getting to know so many more people. The workshops taught me so much and I can bring those new skills with me in the future. It has helped me to not be afraid to take risks within drama and that will never change for me. Overall, it was such a good experience, and I wouldn’t change it for the world.”

“I adored this festival; I made so many new friends and I truly feel like I’ve improved my social skills so much by coming here. I feel much more confident in myself than when I started. This is a once in a lifetime experience and I’m so glad I had the chance to attend. These memories will stay with me forever.”

“I had the best time in the festival, as it helped me to get to know people from my youth theatre better and listen to other’s youth theatre experiences and thoughts it was wonderful to have fun and learn at the same time, the workshops were so enjoyable and helped me to develop many skills in scripting and studying scripts!”

Quotes from Leaders:

"Youth Theatre Ireland was very accommodating and inclusive of people who had extra needs are special requirements. This really helps to make all the kids feel included and heard."

"There was someone always there to help no matter how big or small the issue was. Everything was dealt with very efficiently. And really appreciated them looking out for not just the young people but the leaders too."

"Our young people had an incredible time. Ours came form three different groups in the youth theatre so the bonding within our gang was really lovely to see. Was delighted to see my young people being in charge of their needs and calling for a time out when they needed it. Such an important skill for life generally. And big shout out to the Youth Theatre Ireland team for making this so ok throughout the week."