We are honoured and heartened to receive this message from President Michael D. Higgins on the occasion of our 40th year celebrations.
“There can be no doubting the invaluable role Youth Theatre Ireland has played in the cultural life of Ireland since its establishment four decades ago. Indeed, as we reflect on the work and achievements of Youth Theatre Ireland, we should consider not only what we have gained by the establishment of this important resource for budding theatrical talent, but all we might have lost had it not existed.”
Read the full text in its entirety below.
A Message from President Michael D. Higgins
Many of those working in Irish theatre today owe their first experience of the theatrical world to Youth Theatre Ireland. The careers they have forged in drama, music, or the Arts in general owe much to their local Youth Theatre group where they first discovered the joy of performing and the pleasure of sharing their gifts and talents with an appreciative audience.
There can be no doubting the invaluable role Youth Theatre Ireland has played in the cultural life of Ireland since its establishment four decades ago. Indeed, as we reflect on the work and achievements of Youth Theatre Ireland, we should consider not only what we have gained by the establishment of this important resource for budding theatrical talent, but all we might have lost had it not existed.
There was a time, in our relatively recent history, when outlets for young people interested in theatre were few. University dramatic groups provide a wonderful pathway into the world of theatre for many of those who aspire to a dramatic career. The cultural space, however, must be a wide and generous one. Access to the arts and to creative development is a fundamental part of life for those from all backgrounds and in all generations, and Youth Theatre Ireland is a living acknowledgement of that profound need.
The support of Youth Theatre Ireland has enabled successive generations of diverse and dynamic young people to come together in local groups, united by a love of theatre, to explore and progress their creative voice and unique talents. Without those dedicated Youth Theatre groups that provide vital seedbeds for so much nascent and enriching talent, and the valuable assistance and encouragement they receive from Youth Theatre Ireland, the world of Irish theatre would be a much poorer place.
The roll call of those who work in theatre, and who gratefully trace their artistic journey back to their involvement in Youth Theatre, is an impressive one. Equally impressive are those who have chosen to not to pursue a career in drama but who have also benefitted profoundly from their involvement in Youth Theatre. By realising their creative possibilities and finding new perceptions from which to view the world they too have gone on to offer their unique voices and talents to our society.
I wish Youth Theatre Ireland every success as you continue your work in building a strong culture in the best sense – a culture rooted in the community, fostering creativity among our citizens and ensuring that people of all ages and social backgrounds have effective access to the life-enhancing elixir of music and drama.
Michael D. Higgins
President of Ireland