The National Youth Theatre: Why You Should Audition!

The arts are vital. While it is widely disputed that creative avenues limit today’s graduates, a jolt of performance can lift a student out of a low period.

Of course, not every opportunity is embedded within a degree alone. Extra-curricular activities and outside interests away from campus can lead to great things.

This is where The National Youth Theatre (NYT) comes in. NYT is a hub of creativity for young artists and technicians, the charity affords young people the possibility to learn about themselves and other people.

Young people can get a lot from taking part in creative extra-curricular activities, whether benefits be mental, social or practical.

Building confidence

There’s nothing more nerve-wracking than clambering onto a stage and showing people what you’re made of. Of course, there are those that say you should do the very things you’re frightened by in order to grow as a person.

Should everyone give it a go?

The answer is yes! Fear keeps us rooted to the spot, stagnant in being scared. Joining NYT does not mean you have to go on to be the next Hollywood star, but in the end, there is something to be said about self expression.

Art and performance can flesh out your character through the others you’ll be playing!

Younger than you think

Most people might assume that something like NYT is only for ‘theatre kids’ and those (naturally) bumbling their way through high school.

However, this isn’t the case, and more and more the definition of youth and adolesence is starting to stretch through the years. Put simply, you’re still growing, even at university.

The age bracket for NYT auditions and backstage technicals is 14-25, meaning even some of you post-grads out there can get stuck in.

Divided into two groups from those either end of 18, you’ll be around young adults as you learn to act, sing and support one another. Ultimately, it might do you some good to press pause on full blown adulting for a summer!

In need of inspiration?

Nothing gets the heart pumping like a good piece of film, television, literature or theatre. They’re all connected, and they cross over each other with great results. Story is inspiration, and here you have the chance to really get nestled into the world of wonder.

If you’re beset by the common woes of the graduate, discovering new passions or igniting old ones might just give you that kick into gear that you crave.

Remember, it’s all transferable skills you’ll be picking up here: team-working, public speaking, leadership skills, analysing texts, self-starting. There’s a lot to be learned that can even be applied to a non-artsy job in the future!

The opportunities are endless

To get in to NYT, you have to audition. It might put many off to think that all actors audition in London, somewhere expensive and many miles away for most people. However, this isn’t the case at all…

NYT tour around the entirety of the UK over a period of a few months. This means they visit around 40 different venues every year where they can come and meet you, from Cardiff to York!

Consequently, travelling to this opportunity is never easier, and your nearest city is likely listed as a place where they’ll be stopping by.

A fun day out

Of course, the age old saying is true: it’s the taking part that counts. While the likes of Helen Mirren, Matt Smith and Daniel Craig all got their start in the summer boot camp, they’ll no doubt tell you the experience in and of itself is worth having – even without becoming acting royalty later down the line.

It doesn’t matter whether you get in or not, the audition process is a fun process. Students and young adults are often always looking for a fun day out while they’re in their prime.

NYT is a great way to share some laughs, meet new people, and in general get a kick out of being so young. It’s all about positivity, and everyone is welcome!

Being part of this fantastic organisation can boost your confidence. You can meet people, take part in fantastic shows and add another element to your CV. Do not hesitate to audition!

George Moss writes for Inspiring Interns, which specialises in finding candidates their perfect internship. To browse our graduate jobs London listings, visit our website.