THE Everyman Theatre is offering five free places to this year's Summer School to young people, who would not otherwise be able to afford the course fee.

The places will be funded by the Everyman Theatre Association (ETA).

From Monday, July 31-Friday, August 11, young people between the ages of 11 and 19 will learn a selection of songs and scenes from some of the best-loved musicals of all time, including Mary Poppins, Footloose, Company and many more.

They will work with West End performers, including Christina Modestou (Rent 2017 UK Tour, Shrek the Musical, In The Heights, We Will Rock You) and seasoned theatre professionals, before joining forces with Peter Gill’s Rock School Band, for a live performance on the Everyman’s main stage for family and friends.

This year’s theme is Come Fly Away and those taking part will get the chance to try out exciting aerial and circus skills as part of a wider theatrical experience.

Summer School students can also work towards an Arts Award – a nationally recognised qualification which assesses arts-related and transferable skills.

The ETA is sponsoring five places on this year’s course costing £200 per pupil, to enable those from more disadvantaged backgrounds to take part in this high quality educational, artistic and fun experience.

The ETA is the theatre's Friends organisation and regularly fundraises on behalf of the Everyman.

Mark Goucher, the Everyman Theatre’s new chief executive said: “I am thrilled that the ETA has generously decided to financially support 5 young people who otherwise would not be able to take part in this creative, confidence building and fun programme during the summer holidays.

"This shows a real commitment by the friends of the theatre to support our education, training and outreach programmes and to help and encourage young people to get a taste of the theatre first hand and to be able to perform on our main stage.”

Janet Limb, Chairman of the ETA added: “It’s really important for us to be encouraging young people to get involved with the arts and the Everyman’s Summer School delivers such an exciting and creative programme."

  •  If you feel you qualify for one of the five free places and would like to apply, please email louise.partridge@everymantheatre.org.uk to express your interest.
  • For more information and to book places on this year's Summer School, call the Everyman Theatre Box Office on 01242 572573 or visit everymantheatre.org.uk.