DRAMA is still hugely popular with young people, as the feature on this page explains. But the lack of stage and rehearsal venues is causing problems.

Fund raising is already well underway to pay for the creation of a youth theatre.

We wish the project every success.

But, as those involved in the arts know, the facilities are not the most important thing.

Talent will shine through whether it is paraded on a professional stage or in a draughty church hall.

The youngsters involved have the enthusiasm. They also have inspiring role models, most notably Dame Judi Dench. So we can feel quietly confident that her Oscar will not be the last claimed by a York actor.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.