AFTER an amazing decade, my time as a York Youth Theatre member came to an end earlier this year and I have since gained a place on the BA Acting Course at the Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts.

This is a dream come true and I can confidently say that this would have never happened without the help and support of York Theatre Royal’s Youth Theatre.

In fact, I can confidently say I would not be the person I am today without youth theatre, having joined its ranks at the age of eight and coming every week since.

I would like to take this opportunity to say thank you to every single practitioner I’ve ever had , anyone who’s ever been my partner in countless warm up exercises, anyone who ever made me laugh, anyone who ever inspired me – anyone who helped make Youth Theatre the highlight of the week.

The friends I’ve met are the best friends I’ve ever had, and I’m sure some of the bonds I’ve made will be life-long.

To younger members; I would say to value and enjoy your time.

You will never find a safer environment than a youth theatre session; it’s a space to put yourself out there and learn, and to try things out and make mistakes where it doesn’t matter.

Youth theatre productions are treated just like professional ones and the redevelopment will mean the stage will be easier to perform on for young actors like myself and fellow members.

It’s great that youth theatre will continue during the theatre’s closure and the theatre’s commitment to young people will mean that I truly feel proud when I hopefully return to York Theatre Royal as a professional actress in the future.

By Anna Soden,
former York Youth Theatre member

• For more information on the Theatre’s appeal go to www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk, or to donate Text YTRC15 £(amount you wish to donate) to 70070 or go to:
justgiving.com/yorktheatreroyal/donate