We were recently commissioned by Crewe Lyceum Theatre to produce a short film showcasing the amazing young talent who are taking part in the National Theatre's Connections Festival 2022.
In 1995, the National Theatre created Connections to celebrate the talent of young people across the UK. Since then, the National Theatre commission 10 new plays every year from some of the UK's most exciting writers for young people to perform, with 300 youth theatre companies participating from all over the UK.
In Cheshire, a total of 6 theatre companies are taking part in this year's Connections Festival, and alongside Crewe Lyceum Theatre, we sought out 3 youth theatre groups to document the production, preparation and rehearsal process as they prepare to perform their plays at the Crewe Lyceum Theatre.
Whilst watching the young performers from Bishop's High School, LORIC Players, and Kingsley Players rehearse and perform, we asked a selection of students to describe the festival and what Connections means to them.
I think it's just a really good stepping stone into the professional world of acting, but also just anything. Being able to come together and work with all my mates, and just work with loads of people.
The Connections festival also allows the performers to interact with other youth theatre groups in the area who are also participating in the event. The students commented that the festival is great for expanding their own personal networks, which will help the young people if they wish to pursue a career in the theatre world.
As mentioned previously, the final performances of these plays will be performed at the Crewe Lyceum Theatre from the 25th-27th April, and this will be the Lyceum's first time hosting all six performances. When asked about being able to perform that the Crewe Lyceum Theatre, one performer commented,
Being able to perform at the Crewe Lyceum Theatre is such an amazing opportunity because I think any opportunity to go work at a professional theatre and see how they run a different place, really just builds your confidence.
The Connections Festival is a wonderful opportunity for young people to come together and celebrate performing together, to further develop their skills as future performers, as well as giving them the experience of being part of a full scale production. We wish them all the best with their performances!
For more information and tickets, click here.
