Young talent takes over at The Lyric
Local drama groups and schools take part in a celebration of youth theatre
For the first time, the Lyric Hammersmith will host one of the world’s largest celebrations of youth theatre – Shell Connections – in one of 17 regional showcases across the country. A new generation of performers qill make their mark on the Lyric stage in a whole week of performances from 26th - 30th June.
With tales of conspiracy, mystery, disappearances and searches for truths and self-identity, the plays continue Shell Connections’ mission of providing the best scripts by the best writers for and about teenagers.
This year, 11 schools and groups from as far a field as Reading and Epsom to groups far closer to home such as Chiswick, Barnes and Wembley have been chosen to perform in the Lyric’s Main House and Studio, including the premiere of Feather Boy a brand new musical written by Debbie Wiseman and local legend Don Black performed by Chiswick’s Education in Stage and Theatre Arts with a cast numbering 45, the biggest cast ever to appear on the stage of The Lyric ranging from ages 8 to 16 which also makes them the the youngest company to appear in the Shell Connections.
David Baker, Community Drama Associate at the Lyric said “We’re really excited about being part of Shell Connections and showcasing new emerging young talent. The Lyric team have been busy working with young people from schools and youth centres across London, offering support in directing (by our Artistic Director, David Farr), production, lighting and design. It’s set to be a spectacular week of lively performance by many youngsters making their debut in the world of theatre.”
James Smith, Shell UK Chairman, said: "Shell Connections is a truly inspiring experience for the thousands of young people involved, and we are delighted to be sponsoring for the fourth year. Whether performing or behind the scenes, all the young people staging these exciting new plays will develop important life skills in the process. The teamwork needed for a production, confidence required to get up on stage, and planning for the deadline of a curtain-up, are valuable additions to their experiences in the classroom.”
Shell Connections culminates in July 2006 with a celebratory festival at the National Theatre, where 10 companies from the regional showcases will be invited to perform.
Produced by the National Theatre and made possible through sponsorship from Shell UK, Shell Connections was established twelve years ago in response to widespread demand for challenging new plays for young people to perform. Now in its fourth year of partnership with Shell UK, Connections commissions new, hour-long plays for and about young people, written by some of the best contemporary playwrights and enables schools and youth theatres from all over the UK to produce them.
June 22, 2006