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The Witham Youth Theatre Seniors will take to the stage in April as part of the National Theatre Connections 2025. The group, made up of young actors aged 12 to 16, will perform 'YOU 2.0' at the Newcastle theatre on Tuesday, April 8, at 7pm.
The Witham Youth Theatre Seniors in rehearsal (Image: Sophie Adams) Before this, they will perform at The Witham in Barnard Castle on Thursday, March 13, at 7.30pm. 'YOU 2.
0', written by Alys Metcalf, follows the story of Martha and Isaac, two strangers who form an unexpected bond through a therapy-based video game. As they progress, they realise their impact on each other's real lives is deeper than they imagined. The production explores themes of mental health, identity, and human connection and is recommended for audiences aged 12 and above.
This marks the first time since 2011 that the youth theatre has participated in National Theatre Connections and the first time under its new name. The Witham Youth Theatre, formerly known as Turrets, has built upon Turrets' legacy and continues to grow under its new name. The journey begins with their home performance at The Witham and the community is encouraged to come along and support the talented young cast.
Tickets are available for just £5. A National Theatre mentor director will be in attendance, providing valuable feedback to help refine the production before its Newcastle debut. As part of the programme, directors Laura Shaw and Ollie Smith attended a Directors' Weekend in October 2024, where they participated in workshops with industry professionals, collaborated with fellow youth theatre leaders, and met playwright Alys Metcalf to develop their vision for the production.
Ms Shaw, who has seen many of the young cast grow over the years, shared her pride in their progress: "Watching everyone push themselves and really dive into their characters has been amazing. "I’m so proud of how far they’ve come and what they’ve achieved so far." Mr Smith, now a leader of The Witham Youth Theatre but formerly a member when it was called Turrets, said: "Being part of National Theatre Connections in 2011 was a huge experience for us, and it’s great to see a new generation getting that same opportunity.
"It’ll be interesting to see the feedback we get and how the play evolves before performing at Newcastle Theatre Royal." Tickets for both performances of 'YOU 2.0' are available at thewitham.
org.uk..
