What we see onstage is the tip of the iceberg. Theatre relies on the skills and creativity of many people from the beginning of an idea to the final bows and our Young Creators Programme and Trainee Scheme provide hands-on experience for young people looking to discover more.

In addition to our Education courses, we’ve developed these two professional development and vocational training programmes to give the next generation of theatre makers the chance to find their feet and hone their craft in a real, working theatre.

Here at Chickenshed, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to flourish through theatre, which is why both Young Creators courses are completely free.

Young Creators Programme  

The first of our Young Creators opportunities has been developed for young people aged 14 – 25 and runs annually from September to July. Through workshops and talks, it offers a practical insight into the following areas:

  • Creative Delivery
  • Directing/Acting
  • Writing
  • Devising
  • Children’s Theatre Mentoring
  • Lighting
  • Music Technology & Sound
  • Creative Composition & Musicianship
  • Dance & Choreography
  • Performances to Children
  • Wardrobe & Costume
  • Stage Management

 Applications will be open in January 2020 for September 2020.

Chickenshed's Young Creators programme allows young people to develop a number of skills at no cost. The programme allowed me to develop my writing skills which helped me to write for Exposure - a multi-award winning charitable youth communications enterprise. - Shakira Dyer, former Young Creator

Take a look at the highlights from our Matthew Bourne 'The Red Shoes' Workshops

Register Your Interest

Matthew Bourne Young Creators Workshop

Young Creator Trainees

Young Creators aged 18 – 25 have the exciting opportunity to further develop their skills and understanding in inclusive theatre practice through a series of advanced training opportunities and individual mentoring. Our Young Creator Trainees have the chance to immerse themselves in our professional performance, play an active part in our Education programme and work alongside the 600 young people that make up our Young Company.

The areas with available trainee positions are:

  • Youth Theatre Direction
  • Children’s Theatre Management
  • Performances to Children
  • Lighting and Sound
  • Choreography
  • Music Composition and Delivery
  • Youth Band Management

Flexible timetabling allows our Young Creators to fit the requirements the programme alongside their work or studies, and each trainee will receive a weekly bursary to cover expenses.

Register your interest