The National Festival of Youth Theatres takes place over 5 days each July and includes a residential programme of theatre skills workshops delivered by expert facilitators and a packed calendar of social activities.
Participation is open to Youth Theatre Ireland affiliated youth theatres. 13 youth theatres participate each year with each bringing up to 8 youth theatre members who are aged 12 or over, and two adult leaders over 21.
Social activities take place each evening. A leader’s programme includes workshops, skills share and clinics. It is a valuable opportunity for youth theatre leaders to network and develop future collaborations. A highlight of the Youth Theatre Ireland calendar, it is the largest gathering of Irish youth theatres annually and an excellent opportunity for youth theatre members and leaders to:
- develop new skills
- meet and work with other youth theatre members from all over the country
- and have the craic!
How does my youth theatre get involved?
A call for youth theatres who are interested in participating goes out each spring. Priority is given to youth theatres who have not participated in previous festivals. Other factors considered when selecting youth theatres for the festival are geographical spread and age range of participants.