Trafalgar Education’s Libby Kerys talks us through this year’s Summer Youth Projects.

This summer, Creative Learning is setting the stage for unforgettable experiences as we roll out our annual Summer Youth Projects across the UK. From show-stopping musicals to inspiring workshops, young performers are taking centre stage building confidence, developing skills, and having a whole lot of fun along the way.

Every venue is doing a different production from Annie to The Wizard of Oz. What’s special about these productions, is that they are designed to welcome performers of all abilities, providing professional theatre experiences in a safe, inclusive environment. Whether it’s learning lines, stepping into the spotlight, or discovering a passion behind the scenes, there’s something for everyone.

The Creative Learning programme runs across Trafalgar Entertainment’s theatres to give people of all ages the chance to get involved in the arts. Each theatre has a team delivering activities like drama, dance, singing, and workshops. They run youth theatre productions, weekly classes, and community projects like dementia-friendly events and art therapy.

Every year, tens of thousands of people take part, helping build confidence, creativity, and community connections. The programme aims to make the arts accessible to everyone, no matter their background or ability.

What to Expect This Summer
● Creative Learning teams in Dartford, Crewe, Fareham, Southend, High Wycombe, and Guildford will be producing shows like The Wizard of Oz, Annie, We Will Rock You, A Musical Journey, and Shrek the Musical with the support of professional creatives and facilitators.
● Children and young people aged 6-18 will enjoy a week-long programme packed with rehearsals, games, skills training, and a final performance in a working theatre.

Here’s what our Venue Directors had to say…

“I’m extremely excited for my first Summer Youth Project, with over 100 young performers taking to the stage to perform! Now in its fourth year, G Live’s SYP is so much more than just putting on a show and I’m so excited to see these young people flourish, gain new friends and create last memories together.” Christina Horsepool, Venue Director, G Live

“We’re very excited to be presenting our third consecutive SYP. Following on from the absolutely joyous Bugsy Malone in 2024, we see SYP 2025 go bigger again with Annie; and yes, we have a dog! The stage is set (metaphorically until August) for another triumphant year for SYP in Crewe, as the Lyceum is set to welcome participants and audiences of all ages to enjoy this timeless classic.”
Graham McKnight, Theatre Director, Crewe Lyceum

“The Fareham Live team are looking forward to welcoming over 40 young people into the venue for our very first Summer Youth Project. It’s going to be an exciting time, and underlines our commitment to the venue being a community space for everyone.”
Stephan Stockton, Acting Venue Director, Fareham Live

“I’m super excited for Shrek The Musical and to see how Wycombe presents SYP – with 115 young people this year under Elle’s incredible eye! It’s been so rewarding seeing Guildford’s SYP develop over its first three years – from it’s inaugural Bellerby Studio edition, to full-scale Main House productions. I know first-hand the doors the Project opens – I took part in the Beck Theatre’s for nine years, and to this day some of my closest friends were made in those foyers!”
Connor Harper, Theatre Director, Wycombe Swan

“I am delighted that Orchard West presents our upcoming Summer Youth Project, A Musical Journey. This original production celebrates the story of SYP and the evolution of The Orchard West which is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the spirit of ‘the show must go on!’ Featuring songs from productions spanning the past 12 years, this uplifting piece has been written and devised entirely in-house by our brilliant Creative Learning Managers. SYP is a special time of year when the entire venue comes together to support and showcase the incredible talents of local young people. It’s also a shining example of our technical workplace experience programme in action, nurturing the next generation of creative professionals both on and off the stage.”
Tal Rosen, Theatre Director, Orchard West

“Our Summer Youth Project in Southend is always a highlight of our year and 2025 will be no exception. We are looking forward to producing our 16th project this year, with a cast of 85 incredible young performers, and 11 youth technicians. There will be no place like the Palace Theatre this summer!”
Nick Parr, Theatre Director, Palace Theatre Southend

THE DATES
G Live – 8-9 August
Palace Theatre – 7-10 August
Orchard West – 8-10 August
Fareham Live – 16 August
Wycombe Swan – 15-16 August
Crewe Lyceum – 22-23 August