THE Wilts and Glos Standard's recent story about the five free places on offer for this year's Summer School at The Everyman Theatre to young people who would not otherwise be able to afford the course fee, had a terrific response.

As a result, the Cheltenham theatre has now chosen five young people to receive bursaries take part in the scheme.

The Chief Executive of the Everyman Theatre, Mark Goucher said: “The response from your readers was fantastic.

"We are delighted to be able to offer these bursaries and hope that the experience of taking part in our Summer School will enable these young people to develop their potential and confidence while giving them a positive experience and an opportunity to perform on the main stage of this beautiful theatre.”

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. 

  • 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.