Lyric's Launches Theatre School

NI's Lyric Theatre is launching a year-round training programme called Theatre School in September offering a suite of drama programmes for budding thespians.

No previous experience is required and entry into each programme is set by age.

Courses will run on Sunday, Monday or Tuesday from 18 September and cost will be from £62 for young 'Storytrekkers', up to £225 for the 'Let Loose the Actor in You' programme.

Some 180 places will be made available in seven different workshop programmes, with each drama programme running on a weekly basis across a full school year of three terms.

Richard Croxford, Lyric Theatre Artistic Director said: "There are plenty of opportunities for participation at the theatre in the coming months through our Lyric Theatre School. It has been established to offer accessible creative pathways to children and adults from all backgrounds and abilities on a first come, first served basis.

"The quality of provision is about participation and access to arts training that allows individuals to work at their own pace and develop skills to a level that suits their needs and expectations," he said.

The recently reopened theatre just completed its first series of summer programmes for young people which sold out.

Erin McCullough, 15, who completed the summer programme said: "I've made lots of new friends and I learnt lots including set design, creating a script and working on the performance."

Noirin McKinney, Director of Arts Development, Arts Council of Northern Ireland, said: "The Lyric has an excellent reputation for working with young people and thanks to public funding, that tradition is set to continue.

"As principal funder, the Arts Council supports the Lyric to work with local young people via its education and outreach programmes."

More details on prices, dates and times are available on the Lyric Theatre's website. Those wishing to enrol can do so online at www.lyrictheatre.co.uk or by phoning 028 9038 1081 or calling in at the Lyric Theatre Box Office.

(DW/BMcC)