READING Repertory Theatre has announced its programme of summer schools for this year, giving young performers the chance to train and perform alongside West End stars and industry professionals and creatives.
It comes as part of the Rep’s award-winning ENGAGE outreach programme, and sees week-long workshops built around the company’s shows for a wide range of ages.
This year’s programme features Under The Sea!, where participants will create a show using songs from beloved films such as Moana, The Little Mermaid, and Finding Nemo, aimed at those aged 5-10.
It will also see Play In A Week, where those over 11 will work alongside West End actor Mabli Gwynne and Ada Thorne to devise, write, and perform a play in a week.
Summer In Song with Make/Sense Theatre is aimed at neurodivergent participants aged 11 and over work with Make/Sense Theatre, a West End performer, and a top musical director to unleash their inner star through the one-week summer camp.
The week will also culminate in a performance for family and friends on the Reading Rep Theatre stage.
Dahl’s Phizz-Whizzing Kiddles On Stage is aimed at those aged 5-10 and sees participants play games, make arts and crafts, and create a show centred around the wondrous characters created by Roald Dahl.
West End Experience returns by popular demand and lets participants aged over 11 have the West End experience as they learn and perform hit songs, choreograph dances, get top tips from industry professionals.
They also end the week singing and dancing in their own West End Musical showcase.
Sam Amestoy, Reading Rep Youth Theatre Lead, said: “This summer at Reading Rep will be our biggest yet.
“With a brilliant selection of workshops led by incredible industry professionals–hether you’re looking to learn from West End stars, thrive in creating your own Play, or have lots of fun–there is something for everyone.
“We are extremely proud to be able to offer such a broad variety of workshops this summer for children of all ages and we absolutely cannot wait to get started.
“So don’t miss out, book now and see you this summer.”
Paul Stacey, Artistic Director of Reading Rep, said: “Inspiring the next generation and cultivating creativity from a young age is at the heart of everything we do.
“Our Summer Schools offer children an extraordinary chance not just to dream, but to step onto the stage alongside West End talent.
“It’s thrilling, it’s transformative, and it’s precisely what makes Reading Rep so special.”
More information about each of the shows, including fees, is available via: readingrep.com
