Young people in the Yankalilla area can now strut their stuff on stage or learn backstage skills with a new theatre group launching.

From September, Yankalilla Youth Theatre will offer workshops for keen thespians and behind-the-scenes tech crew members aged between nine and 18.

The group will run sessions on Mondays and Fridays during school terms at Yankalilla Show Hall, (1 Jervois Road, Yankalilla).

Yankalilla Youth Theatre aims to put on two performances per year (in April and September) with participants taking on duties such as performing, writing, playing music, stage management and lighting.

A professional theatre technician will mentor the tech crew.

Some free Come and Try sessions will be held for potential participants to get a taste of what the group offers. They will be held on Monday 7 and 14 September and Friday 11 and 18 September. On all of the dates, ages nine to 12 will meet from 4.30pm to 5.30pm, and ages 13-18 from 5.30pm to 6.30pm. Whilst the Come and Try sessions will be free of charge, normal attendance will attract fees.

The group also aims to provide opportunities for young people to travel to arts events outside the region, with group discounts available for performances and workshops. The first trip - a backstage tour of the Hopgood Theatre in Noarlunga - has already been confirmed for Term 4.

Organiser Evette Wolf is excited about the project and looking forward to getting started. 

She has been involved in youth arts for almost 20 years and knows “first-hand how powerful and life changing it can be”.

Evette has worked with drama students at Yankalilla Area School and is passionate about working with young people to develop their original work. 

“Young people are brimming with ideas and have their own stories to tell so I never use pre-written scripts,” she said.

“By using theatre games and exercises we explore ideas and develop characters and bring stories to life. 

“Throughout the year workshops will focus on developing performance and storytelling skills as well as building confidence, self-esteem and co-operation. 

“It is extremely rewarding work!”

Evette invites local youth to book in for the Come and Try sessions and consider joining. Anyone interested who happens to be outside the age ranges should also get in touch as if there is enough interest the service could be extended. 

She also encourages any talented local who would be interested in running Sunday workshops in an area of the arts such as costumes to get in touch. Donations of props and costumes like wigs and hats are also welcomed.

To register your interest or find out more, contact Evette on 0480 292 920 or [email protected]

You can also follow the group on Instagram (@yankalillayouththeatre).