Youth theatreexcellent for community

GIPPSLAND YouthDrama Workshop (GYDW) is set to launch its first production group for 2023. The workshop will soon begin writing and rehearsing for aJune show, with youngperformers traveling from across the region to be involved in the original production.

Afterthe massive audience hit performance of the original comedy TheUnsinkableShip in November, the group of young performers were presented with production awards in recognitionoftheir dedication and enthusiasm for the performing arts. The group is now setting themselves for anew production, which will mark 30 yearsinGippsland,and invites new members to get involved.

Established in 1993, the theatreprogram is unique in that every production is original and conceived by the participants.

GYDW has produced more than 100 original shows, involving over 2200 regional performers.

The workshop sessions focus on building performance skills, as well as confidence, team work, vocabulary,communication, responsibility, and manyother attributes transferabletolife.The main aim is to enhance the young performer’s natural talents, and provide apositive educational theatre experience in asupportive environment.

Director Phillip AMayer said, “Dramahelps build resilience, well-being, self esteem and engagement, and participation exposes young people to essential skillswhich help them cope with challenges. There is nothing but positives,and it’s aprivilege being a part of instilling an appreciation for the performing arts in regionalyouth. It’s areal positive for the community and the kids love it”.

“Young performers build plot, characters, themes and humorous scenes which they find interesting and valuable in expressing their ideas.

“We incorporate improvisations, theatre sports games, writer’s workshop sessions, the rehearsal process, stage craft, voice projectionand afinal production open to family, friends and the general public. All the participantsare given good sized roles commensurate with their experience and ability, and they buzz with excitement at performing in front of alarge audience.”

The group is enhanced by members of the awardwinning Here There and Everywhere Theatre Co.

“We have an amazing team helping to produce theatre with wonderfully talented and dedicated young people from across Latrobe,” Mr Mayer said. “Theatre is allaboutexpressing yourself and viewing the world in unique ways so you can try and make sense of it. It’s also alot of fun.

“Takingpartinthe dramatic arts is one of the best ways to develop the imagination and support creative expression, especially for young people Collaborating withpeers, discussing big ideas and learning the skills of live performance can help prepare kids for real-world challenges. Our curriculum is designed and delivered by experienced performers, with apassion for making adifference in young people’s lives.”

The workshop’s new production startsfor rehearsals on Wednesdays, and welcomes new young stars to join.

The show is booked for June 24.

Running from5:15pm until 6:45pm, weekly rehearsals are conducted in Traralgon, and are open to young participants from upper primary school age through to 17 years.

Final applications for the new show close soon, with bookings essential as places are extremely limited.

For further information, phone the directoron 0409 878 688.