Alan King

Youth Theatre Ireland

Youth Theatre Ireland is the national development organisation for youth theatre. We represent a network of youth theatres that deliver year-round programmes of drama workshops and performance opportunities to young people, aged 12+ from cities, towns and villages across Ireland. Established for 40 years, Youth Theatre Ireland is unique in its commitment to youth-centered drama practice and promotes: - drama as a medium for learning and as a means of expression for young people; - the advancement of the artistic, personal and social development of young people through drama and performance related skills; -youth theatre as a medium to extend and enhance young people's understanding of theatre as an artform; - the emergence and development of youth theatres in Ireland. In support of our goals we: - produce national-level artistic programmes including festivals and the National Youth Theatre; - provide training for youth theatre leaders and practitioners; - develop new youth theatres in partnership with local groups and agencies; - provide advice, guidance and support to existing youth theatres; - advocate for youth theatres and champion the benefits of youth drama for all young people; - operate a Garda Vetting Consortium for youth theatres; - provide a range of practical and artistic resources for youth theatres; - push youth theatre practice forward through research and debate.