ON the heels of Upstage Centre Youth Theatre’s winter musical, The Snow Queen, the York company is calling for young actors and dancers to join three ambitious spring projects.

Upstage’s junior team, aged eight to 13, will be looking at characterisation and ensemble theatre in a stage adaptation of Dick King-Smith’s colourful and inspiring tale of Babe The Sheep Pig.

Meanwhile, the senior team, aged 14 to 21, will use the same farmyard theme to tackle George Orwell’s brutal critique of Marxism, Animal Farm, in a high-energy, physical performance.

Babe The Sheep Pig will be rehearsed every Monday, from 5.30pm to 7.30pm, starting on February 23, and Animal Farm’s rehearsals will be held every Sunday, from 2pm to 5pm, from February 29 at 41 Monkgate. Both shows will be performed in Upstage’s studio theatre from May 7 to 9.

For those who prefer dancing, Upstage’s resident youth dance troupe, The Dance Lab, will return with a project for young people aged eight to 21, aimed to develop skills in body awareness and a number of dance styles and genres. Training will take place on Thursday from 5.30pm to 7.30pm, starting on March 5, and will run for 12 weeks.

There are no auditions and no prior experience is necessary, only enthusiasm and commitment. All projects cost £80 per participant, although Upstage does have a hardship policy to support participation for people who cannot afford the full fees.

“This is your chance to join a thriving youth theatre in an energetic and supportive environment, but spaces are limited so get in touch and make sure you don’t miss out,” says co-artistic director Joshua Goodman.

More at upstagecentre.org.uk and all queries should be directed to info@upstagecentre.org.uk