Scottish Youth Theatre Annual Report 13/14

annualREPORT

Scottish Youth Theatre – giving young people in Scotland the opportunity to explore and to reach their creative potential through a quality theatre arts experience.

Scotland’s National Theatre ‘For & By’ Young People

2013 2014

Scottish Youth Theatre, The Old Sheriff Court, 105 Brunswick Street, Glasgow G1 1TF TEL: 0141 552 3988 FAX: 0141 552 7615 EMAIL: info@scottishyouththeatre.org WEBSITE: www.scottishyouththeatre.org

“Deciding to audition for Summer Festival 2011 was one of the best decisions I ever made – not just because of the cracking summer I had and the cool and exciting people I got to meet, but thereafter they kept me in work during my gap year, offered me great work experience and advice, and their connections with the professional world helped me start a career for myself. I owe them everything.”

conclusion

staff

patrons & friends

international

the old sheriff court

research & development

special projects

syt productions

national roadshow

training

weekly classes

summer festival

national achievement

chairman’s report

introduction

Now’s The Hour, Summer Festival 2013 (Photo by Douglas Robertson)

funders, partners & collaborators

MARTIN QUINN, 19, PAISLEY (NOW PLAYING OSKAR IN LET THE RIGHT ONE IN, APOLLO THEATRE, WEST END, LONDON.)

4 5 6 8 12 15 16 20 24 26 28 30 31 32 33 34 Design and production: www.wagdesign.co

Weekly Classes, Glasgow

SEN Roadshow 2014, Saltersgate School, Dalkeith

Scotland’s National Theatre ‘For & By’ Young People

SCOTTISH YOUTH THEATRE IS A MEMBER OF THE SCOTTISH THEATRE COMMUNITY SCOTTISH YOUTH THEATRE SUPPORTS THE WORK OF YOUTH THEATRE ARTS SCOTLAND

Front cover image: Mary Queen of Scots Got Her Head Chopped Off, Summer Festival 2013 (Photo by Douglas Robertson) Back cover image: Now’s The Hour, Summer Festival 2013 (Photo by Douglas Robertson)

chairman’sREPORT

annualREPORT

John Scott Moncrieff Chairman of Scottish Youth Theatre’s Board of Directors

Mary McCluskey Artistic Director (Chief Executive)

“I have learned so much about acting from being part of SYT and also about myself. SYT has given me the confidence I didn’t have initially to make new friends, be the best actor I can be and most importantly to believe in myself.”

“…Scottish Youth Theatre has the continued ability to not only challenge us as youth theatre should, but also to prod our thoughts whenever they think we need prompting.”

FRINGE REVIEW, AUGUST 2013

In association with the Robertson Trust and the Gordon Fraser Trust, the company was delighted to bring back the National Roadshow. This allowed us to offer, once again, in the Autumn, a menu of free workshops to geographically targeted schools and youth groups. During phase two in March 2014, free workshops were offered to groups with extra support needs. Through the Roadshow, Scottish Youth Theatre delivers free workshops on a national basis.

Throughout 2013/14, the company’s relationship with Network Rail grew and became more consolidated. The partnership has blossomed with the two organisations working together to deliver the Rail Respect message to children and young people across the Central Belt and the Borders. Scottish Youth Theatre looks forward to future collaborations.

Another partnership was further developed throughout the year, our association with the

National Theatre of Scotland. The two companies are working towards the creation of The Tin Forest, as part of the cultural programme for Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games.

SYT Productions continued to grow as Scottish Youth Theatre’s theatre company for exceptionally talented young people. In 2013/14, this company of skilled young people represented the youth theatre with tours of The Weegie Board and Killing Me Softly/Instant. Members continued to be the mainstay of our work for early years audiences with Family Storytime and the interactive Festive and Easter productions.

Now’s The Hour, our Summer Festival production featuring the hopes and fears of young people relating to the forthcoming Independence Referendum, has caught the imagination of young people, their families, the public, the press and politicians.

It was also a significant year for the Board of Directors with the Vice-Chair, Carole Mackie, and the Chair, Bobby Hain, stepping down.

Scottish Youth Theatre appreciates the contribution that Carole and Bobby have made to the sustainability of the youth theatre and the Old Sheriff Court in their time with the company. Over the past ten years both have given freely of their time, business acumen and support for the staff. Scottish Youth Theatre is grateful for their dedication and commitment to the aims and objectives of the company. The Board elected Jane Wilson as Vice Chair and John Scott Moncrieff as Chair. The Board and Core Staff look forward to working with John and Jane on sustaining Scottish Youth Theatre for years to come.

W

HILE I appear to have served on a fair number of Boards for Performing Arts Companies over the years, it was a particular thrill to be asked to succeed the inimitable and constantly positive Bobby Hain as Chair of Scottish Youth Theatre. To play even a small part in helping to harness enthusiasm and talent in Scotland’s creative young people gives me the greatest of pleasure, as it does to share the responsibility with Board Members who show fantastic levels of commitment in the time that they give to “the cause”.

the publishing of the Scottish Government’s National Youth Arts Strategy, significantly-entitled Time to Shine. If much contained in the document looks familiar, it is simply because so many of those aims and objectives have been at the core of our operation since “day one”!

As always, shared values lead to positive results and we look forward to working with Creative Scotland in playing an integral part in the delivery of the strategy’s aspirations.

The return of the Company’s National Roadshow last autumn was a particular cause for celebration. It has been made possible thanks to the generous For “cause” it is. With some Board support from The Robertson Trust and Members having to travel great The Gordon Fraser Charitable Trust. distances for meetings, the regularity of The very idea of SYT banging the their attendance at them and, indeed, drum for live theatre in every corner of performances is testament to their our peculiarly-shaped country warms the heart. desire to fulfil our multifarious aims and also, of course, to exceed them!

If ever we should flag, the sparkle and This summer, at the core of the the smiles from SYT’s participants, at Edinburgh Fringe, SYT will again every level, soon sort us out! underscore its relevance and dynamism with a high-profile revival of Now’s 2013/14 has been a significant year The Hour! It is “devised theatre” of in Scottish Youth Theatre’s history. the highest order.

The company particularly welcomes

While, at the end of the day, comparatively few of our former participants will enter the theatrical profession permanently, it was a great testament to the Company’s work to be able to congratulate no fewer than three of our alumni on their recent Olivier Awards in London’s West End – for as wide a range as “Best Performance in a Supporting Role in a Musical”, “Best Supporting Actor” and “Best Lighting Design”. Diversity of talents in a diversity of fields…

Finally, not only has Bobby Hain stood down, but also Carole Mackie, whose vigilance as Chair of the Finance Committee was particularly appreciated. She has been succeeded as Vice Chair by Jane Wilson, a regular traveller up from London to join her colleagues in Glasgow. Scottie Anderson is also standing down now, us knowing, as with Bobby and Carole, that his energy and enthusiasm can always be called upon to assist us in our mission to see Scottish Youth Theatre everstronger and the indomitable Mary McCluskey and Caroline Cosgrove, along with their Core Team, supported every inch along the way…

BOARD OF DIRECTORS John Scott Moncrieff CHAIR, Jane Wilson VICE CHAIR Scott Anderson, Anne-Marie Austin, Sarah Deas, Janette Harkess, Margaret Hearne, Ralph Leishman, Frank McAveety, Mary McCluskey, Thomas Murdock, Harry Warnock, Bobby Hain, Carole Mackie (stepped down during the year)

CHAIRMAN’S REPORT

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013/14 has been a significant year in Scottish Youth Theatre’s 37 year long history. The company welcomes the publishing of the Scottish Government’s national youth arts strategy, Time to Shine. Scottish Youth Theatre also recognises and welcomes the fact that we share many of the document’s aims and objectives. Having been instrumental in kick starting the process to develop Time To Shine, Scottish Youth Theatre looks forward to working with Creative Scotland in the delivery of the aspirations of the strategy.

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ANNUAL R E PORT 2013/14

ANNUAL R E PORT 2013/14

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createIMAGINEinspire

ANNUAL REPORT

KATEE, 18, MIDLOTHIAN

“The experience I’ve gained from SYT during my gap year has been invaluable and thanks to SYT I now have a much clearer idea about which direction I want my future to head in.”

IMOGEN, 19, NEWPORT, FIFE

As a National Company, Scottish Youth Theatre will lead the sector in unlocking the creative potential, confidence and self-development of children and young people in Scotland through performance and the theatre process.

NATIONALachievement

NATIONAL ACHIEVEMENT ANNUAL R E PORT 2013/14

❚ to enable, stimulate and directly provide a quality theatre arts experience for the young people in Scotland through the provision of a programme of accessible activities. ❚ to aim for the personal and social development of all individual participants, with special emphasis on transferable skills. ❚ to give access at all levels of the youth theatre’s work (fun, serious and career) to all interested young people in Scotland, regardless of physical, social, educational, cultural or geographical disadvantage. ❚ to pursue excellence in youth theatre arts provision in Scotland. ❚ to develop the Old Sheriff Court as an international centre for the development of creativity and the imagination in children and young people. ❚ to seek to actively programme the Brian Cox Studio as a dedicated venue for performances, projects and events dedicated to children and young people. ❚ as a national performing arts company, to represent the best of youth theatre in Scotland on a national and international stage.

WHAT WE DO Scottish Youth Theatre is a national youth performing arts company. It is Scotland’s national theatre ‘for & by’ young people. As a national company, Scottish Youth Theatre aspires to be a leader in best practice in youth theatre arts. As such, it fulfils the following roles:

❚ Operates a diverse national programme of courses (residential and non-residential); classes, projects and productions. ❚ Delivers that quality experience all around Scotland all year round. ❚ Provides an inspirational focus for young people interested in theatre and drama in Scotland. ❚ Acts as a conduit into further education and the creative industries. ❚ Offers a programme of tailor-made special projects to schools, youth theatres and youth groups all around Scotland. ❚ Provides quality training opportunities for workshop tutors and apprentices. ❚ Represents the best of youth theatre in Scotland on a national and international stage. ❚ Promotes Scotland’s cultural heritage at a national and international level. ❚ Contracts and employs a large number of freelance theatre practitioners in Scotland. ❚ Operates as a national resource, the Old Sheriff Court, Scotland’s first ever specially designed centre for the development of creativity and imagination in children and young people. ❚ Commissions, designs and develops new work written specifically for performance by children and young people. ❚ Acts as a lobbying voice for youth theatre with government at a Local, a Scottish and a UK level. ❚ Encourages and develops audiences of the future. ❚ Employs the youth theatre process to develop confident and culturally aware citizens for Scotland – those with an interest and a pride in the country’s rich cultural heritage.

Aith, Brae, Mid Yell, Sandwick Shetland Deerness, Kirkwal, Stromness, Westray Orkney

INVERNESS

ABERDEEN

DUNDEE

EDINBURGH GLASGOW

Redbridge, London

PARTICIPANT DAYS

26,828

❚ Harris & Lewis ❚ Heriot ❚ Helensburgh ❚ Invergordon ❚ Inverness ❚ Islay ❚ Kirkhill ❚ Kirkwal ❚ Kiltarlity ❚ Kirriemuir ❚ Klagenfurt, Austria ❚ Larbert ❚ Linlithgow ❚ Lochaber ❚ Lochgilphead ❚ Maybole ❚ Mid Yell ❚ Monifieth ❚ Montrose ❚ Motherwell ❚ Newtongrange, Midlothian ❚ Paisley ❚ Perth ❚ Portree ❚ Prishtina, Kosovo ❚ Portlethan ❚ Redbridge, London ❚ Saltcoats ❚ Sandwick ❚ Stromness ❚ Tarbert ❚ Thurso ❚ Tobermory ❚ Tweedbank ❚ Ullapool ❚ Westray

Graz, Klagenfurt, Austria Prishtina, Kosovo

❚ Provides a quality youth theatre arts experience

to children, young people and their leaders. ❚ Enables children and young people and their leaders to explore and reach their creative potential through the youth theatre process.

❚ Aberdeen ❚ Aboyne ❚ Aith, Shetland ❚ Alloa ❚ Arbroath ❚ Ardnamuchan ❚ Arrochar ❚ Auchterarder ❚ Ayr ❚ Balfron ❚ Bannockburn ❚ Barra ❚ Bellshill ❚ Benbecula ❚ Blairgowrie ❚ Brae ❚ Buckie ❚ Clydebank ❚ Cloverford ❚ Coatbridge ❚ Crieff ❚ Culloden ❚ Cumbernauld ❚ Dalkeith ❚ Deerness ❚ Dundee ❚ Dunoon ❚ East Kilbride ❚ Eastwood ❚ Edinburgh ❚ Elgin ❚ Ellon ❚ Falkirk ❚ Fortrose ❚ Fort William ❚ Fraserburgh ❚ Galashiels ❚ Glasgow ❚ Graz, Austria ❚ Greenock

PERFORMANCES

AUDIENCES REACHED

EVENTS & COURSES DELIVERED

FREELANCE CONTRACTS

CASUAL CONTRACTS

VENUES USED

OLD SHERIFF COURT VISITORS

280

11,442

67

297

43

118

50,111

annual STATISTICS

NATIONAL ACHIEVEMENT

Scottish Youth Theatre – giving young people in Scotland the opportunity to explore and to reach their creative potential through a quality theatre arts experience.

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(representing 113 individuals)

(issued to 26 individuals)

ANNUAL R E PORT 2013/14

VISION

COMPANY OBJECTIVES

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WHERE WE’VE BEEN IN 2013/14

MISSION

“It gives you a chance to experience life as a professional performer. It pushes you to be the best you can be and when you see your work come alive on stage, it’s the best feeling!”

PARTICIPANT, SUMMER FESTIVAL 2013

SUMMER FESTIVAL 2013 – INDEPENDENCE?

Mary Queen of Scots Got Her Head Chopped Off, Summer Festival 2013 (Photo by Douglas Robertson)

Now’s The Hour

Mary Queen of Scots Got Her Head Chopped Off rehearsals, Summer Festival 2013

“I’m amazed at how much I’ve learnt, how much I’ve achieved, and how much I’ve been shaped and developed as a person and as a performer.”

PARTICIPANT, SUMMER FESTIVAL 2013

Now in its third year, the Learning Programme recruited a cohort of 11 participants from around Scotland. The course is made up of 4 units: Rehearsal and Production Processes; Voice in Rehearsal and Performance; Movement in Rehearsal and Performance; and Character in Rehearsal and Performance. The cohort was split between the two main house shows. The Learning Programme is proving popular with young people from schools that have no or very little drama provision. Karen McGrady-Parker, Associate Director – Early Years, was once again Internal Assessor, with Kieran McLaughlin from Carnegie College as External Assessor. All participants successfully passed the Programme with a SQCF Level 7 qualification.

PERFORMANCE & PRODUCTION COURSE “I enjoyed creating and performing a great show to such a professional standard and working with enthusiastic cast members.”

PARTICIPANT, SUMMER FESTIVAL 2013

This 5 week-long intensive theatre arts

SUMMER FESTIVAL

SF13 was made even more special because of visits from important patrons, friends and supporters. They were as follows: ❚ Patrons Emma Thompson and Phyllida Law visited in early July, when after a tour of the building, they lead a Q&A with participants. ❚ Participants welcomed new patron, Liz Lochhead, our Scots Makar. Liz visited a rehearsal and performances of her play Mary Queen of Scots Got Her Head Chopped Off. The cast enjoyed Liz’s tips and readings from the play. ❚ Elaine C Smith, patron, attended performances of Now’s The Hour and Mary Queen of Scots Got Her Head Chopped Off. Both casts and creative teams appreciated her support. ❚ Fiona Hyslop MSP and Cabinet Secretary for Culture and External Affairs, and Clare Adamson MSP attended performances of Mary Queen of Scots Got Her Head Chopped Off. The cast and creative team appreciated an after show chat with Ms. Hyslop. ❚ MSPs Clare Adamson, Linda Fabiani and Joan McAlpine attended performances of Now’s The Hour.

PERFORMANCE & PRODUCTION LEARNING PROGRAMME

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ANNUAL R E PORT 2013/14

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SUMMERfestival

SUMMER FESTIVAL

“I

NDEPENDENCE?” was selected as the theme for Summer Festival 2013 by the Artistic Team and the Artistic Committee, as a means of engaging participants in the debate around the Referendum scheduled for September 2014. The team felt that young people should be asking questions, seeking knowledge and opinions relating to the future of Scotland.

“Given a tough six-week assignment into the history of the nation, these talented youngsters passed with flying colours.”

During week one, all participants spend at least one session a day in skills building workshops including: voice production, music, dance, stage fighting, video production and improvisation. Directors cast productions in the first week.

Rehearsals then operate three sessions a day, six days a week, until productions open.

Technical Theatre Course participants are given the opportunity to attend sessions in stage lighting, stage design, creating a “prompt book”, prop making and sourcing, costume design and sound design. They then work assisting the professional staff in preparing the technical and design elements of the main house productions. Technical participants operate lights, sound and “run the show” from the prompt corner throughout production week.

Participants are given extra opportunities to further develop their skills by providing technical and stage management back up for extra-curricular events and for the Glasgow Foundation Courses.

MARY QUEEN OF SCOTS GOT HER HEAD CHOPPED OFF

by Liz Lochhead, directed by Mary McCluskey, with design by Kenny Miller and music by Ross Brown. Mark Cameron choreographed the piece. Scott Miller was assistant director. The play was performed at the Tron Theatre, 6-10 August.

NOW’S THE HOUR Devised with the Company and directed

by Fraser MacLeod with David Cosgrove as dramaturg. Assistant Director (Music) was Anna Schneider and Assistant Director (Movement) was Jayne Austin.

Finlay McLay acted as design consultant.

The promenade production was performed in the Old Sheriff Court, 6-10 August.

This production saw the core cast of 10 participants from the Performance and Production Learning Programme and Course work with the creative team to explore their hopes, fears and ambitions for themselves and their country. From here a structure was created exploring the main questions posed by the young people in the lead up to the Scottish Independence Referendum in 2014.

Joined by 22 further young people from the Intermediate Course, the cast created a show full of characters, songs, sketches and heartfelt letters to their future selves.

“I don’t have the words to say how brilliant Scottish Youth Theatre’s performance of Now’s the Hour was tonight.”

NOW’S THE HOUR, LINDA FABIANI MSP, AUGUST 2013

the die was cast and the ballot box glowed with heightened anticipation.”

NOW’S THE HOUR, THE HERALD, AUGUST 2013

INTERMEDIATE COURSE This three-week course continues to act as a bridge between the Foundation and the Performance and Production Courses.

It has been developed to provide participants with a more intense and focussed experience in approaching play production and performance. This course starts at the beginning of week 3 of the Performance and Production Course.

There are now two options as follows:

Glasgow Foundation Course, Summer Festival 2013

Ensemble – This course allows participants to experience running to full production without the stresses and time commitments required of the main characters. The group joined the cast of Mary Queen of Scots Got Her Head Chopped Off playing minor characters and the chorus in the production.

Devising – This company of young people joined the cast of Now’s The Hour, researching and devising new material and characters that added to the rich tapestry of the production. Not only did this group act as an ensemble to the main characters but they created short songs and sketches to be performed in the foyer and corridor as the audience made their way to the auditorium.

“The skills that I am leaving the course with are priceless.”

Glasgow Foundation Course, Summer Festival 2013

Participants worked with theatre directors and specialist artists. In 2013, these specialists were choreographers and musical directors. Kat Wilson was the Associate Artist, overseeing all Foundation Courses.

Performances took place on a main stage in the following theatres at the end of week two:

PARTICIPANT, SUMMER FESTIVAL 2013

SUMMER FESTIVAL

“Interesting, thought provoking, well directed and produced... A lot of good talented youngsters in there and a credit to SYT and Scotland.”

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“This was simply an excellent example of why youth theatre in Scotland should have increased investment.”

NOW’S THE HOUR, FRINGE REVIEW, AUGUST 2013

ELAINE C SMITH, PATRON, SUMMER FESTIVAL 2013

MAIN HOUSE PRODUCTIONS: “I loved the performances because of the vibrancy, the understanding, the direction taking in the abilities that the cast had in utilising them to such great effect.”

FRINGE REVIEW, AUGUST 2013

FESTIVAL OF POLITICS Following the Summer Festival performance of Now’s the Hour, a redeveloped version of the show performed at the Scottish Parliament as part of the Festival of Politics 2013.

“Writing a letter to their future selves proved the most poignant moment, as

FOUNDATION COURSE “It has given me so much confidence in myself socially and as a performer and I enjoyed every minute of it.”

Aberdeen FC – this group performed in the Education Suite at His Majesty’s Theatre, with Michelle Bruce as drama director, Kirsty Pennycook as trainee director and Fiona Burness as technical stage manager.

Edinburgh Junior Course, Summer Festival 2013

workshop assistants. Clare McNeill as technical stage manager.

JUNIOR COURSE This performance skills course was specially developed for young people aged 8-11, in Glasgow as part of Summer Festival 2006. Such was the success of the inaugural course that a parallel course was initiated in Edinburgh in 2007. In 2009 the course was introduced in Aberdeen. Participants are led, in a week of skills classes, devising sessions and rehearsals, by a theatre director and a musical director. The theme for the courses in 2013 was Independence?.

PARTICIPANT, SUMMER FESTIVAL 2013

This popular basic skills course for 12-15 year-olds develops theatre techniques/ skills in week one and works towards a new devised piece of theatre in week two. A performance was devised on the theme of Independence?.

Glasgow FC – the two groups performed in the Brian Cox Studio. The staff was as follows: Gemma Petrie, Nathan Byrne and Tom Hobbins as drama directors, Eilidh McRae and Jayne Austin as movement directors. James Beck as trainee director. Stephanie Hunter, Eilidh Zerebiec and Corrie McKendrick as

“We were amazed and delighted by what could be achieved in only one week of work. Very well done to students and staff. BRAVO!” PARENT, JUNIOR COURSE, SUMMER FESTIVAL 2013

Performances took place in the following theatres:

Aberdeen JC – this group performed in the Education Suite at His Majesty’s Theatre, with Barry Donaldson as drama director, Christie Mitchell as trainee director and Fiona Burness as technical stage manager.

Edinburgh JC – this group performed in the Empire Rooms at Festival Theatre Edinburgh with Kat Wilson as drama director, James Beck as trainee director and Ryan Griffin as technical stage manager.

Glasgow JC – participants were split into two groups with both performing in the Edwin Morgan Studio. Kat Wilson and Rhowenna McGregor were drama directors, supported by Claire Docherty as music specialist and Stephen McAveety and Jenni Wright as trainee directors.

Darryl Dale and Sean O’Brien were workshop assistants. Ryan Griffin was technical stage manager.

Total SF13 Audience Numbers 1,850

SUMMER FESTIVAL

training course for predominately 16-25 year olds leads to main house productions. The course involves young people from all around Scotland, and beyond, attending five weeks of workshops, classes, rehearsals, theatre visits and talks from guest speakers, culminating in performances in the final week. It is Scottish Youth Theatre’s aim to give participants a realistic experience of the rehearsal and production processes.

★★★★ THE HERALD, AUGUST 2013

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MARY QUEEN OF SCOTS GOT HER HEAD CHOPPED OFF,

weeklyCLASSES

Weekly classes, Edinburgh and Glasgow

Weekly classes, Edinburgh

“SYT classes and courses are always fun – whatever you run I will attend!”

PARTICIPANT, WEEKLY CLASSES GLASGOW

ANNUAL R E PORT 2013/14

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“Every class is like going on an adventure.”

PARTICIPANT, EDINBURGH WEEKLY CLASSES

SUMMER TERM – Theme: Independence?

Classes explored this theme over the ten week term and shared their work with parents and guardians in end of term sharings.

Each class used this theme to develop performance pieces for presentation at the Winter Festival.

WINTER FESTIVAL Using the quote “Sometimes no present is better than the wrong present”, each 15-25 class in Glasgow devised a superstructure for their day of performances.

Led by tutors Kat Wilson and Rhowenna McGregor, the groups created a skeleton of a story where the younger age groups could slot in with their own pieces devised in class. The end performances took place in the Edwin Morgan Studio.

WINTER PERFORMANCE TERM

“My daughter comes to SYT because she gets taught by professionals in a Theme: “Sometimes no present is fun and exciting way.”

better than the wrong present”

PARENT, WEEKLY CLASSES GLASGOW

WEEKLY CLASSES

For many young people the weekly classes are their first point of association with Scottish Youth Theatre. From attendance at classes a young person can go on to become involved with holiday

courses and special projects, Summer Festival courses, SYT Productions and eventually may end up working for the company as a trainee tutor.

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WEEKLY CLASSES

T

HESE weekly process based sessions for 2½ -25 year olds involve up to 400 young people a term in Glasgow at the Old Sheriff Court and in Edinburgh at the Festival Theatre. The main aim of the classes is to provide an inclusive fun leisure time activity where the participants develop their creativity, personal and social skills through the youth theatre process.

Classes run at each of the following age ranges: 3-4 year olds; 5-7 year olds; 8-10 year olds; 11-14 year olds; and 15-25 year olds.

“Every minute was the best time of my life.”

PARTICIPANT, MUSICAL THEATRE COURSE 2013

Friday 8-11 Play in a Day and 12-16 Tech it Out Number of Participants: 8-11 year olds – 16 participants 12-16 year olds – 32 participants

“I love SYT, I’ll stick around for many years to come.”

PARTICIPANT, 2013/2014

Spring Term 2014 saw individual tutors EASTER MUSICAL select a specific theatre skill to focus on THEATRE COURSE with their class. Skills explored included In April 2013, 18 young people, aged ENSEMBLE 8-16, devised a new musical using songs PERFORMANCE storytelling, working with props, physical These weekly ‘process’ based sessions Summer Term (April-June) They made the acting classes fun and COURSE Eh A Hink You’ll theatre, puppetry,over from Scottish for solo 3-25performance, year olds involve Theme Artists.

– ‘Heroes’ interesting Strawberry and I was dying to get Find It’s Me Yer Efter was directed and characterization writingascripts.

Freckleface 500 youngand people term in Specialist Skills – Advanced there each day.”

SOFIA (13), Participants shared what they had Court, choreographed Glasgow at the Old Sheriff Acting by Darren Brownlie, with The Musical Glasgow Ross Brown as MD and Kirsty Pennycook learned over the 10 weeks with parents in Edinburgh at the Festival Theatre Specialist Skills – Acting for This course was developed as a means director. The performance took of allowing 11-14 year olds to develop and guardians in their final sharing. and at His Majesty’s Theatre in as trainee Camera Running alongside the Summer Aberdeen. The main aim of the place before an audience of 50 family musical theatre skills through acting as term of classes these weekly classes provide inclusive and friends the Brian Cox Studio.

WinterinTerm (Sept-Nov.) “Everyone is is soto friendly andanvery the ensemble insaw the aSYT Productions sessions group of budding fun leisure time activity where the Theme – ‘Don’t be scared, just be led family musical considerate of everybody’s strengths Freckleface young actors working together to prepared, scary can be exciting’ Strawberry and participants weaknesses.”develop their The Musical. gain skills relating to working in creativity, personal and social Introduction of Dance Classes.

OCTOBER WEEK PARTICIPANT, WEEKLY CLASSES GLASGOW front of a camera.

Filmmakers skills through the youth theatre “THEATRE Winter Festival TOOLBOX” Supported by a core cast ofThomson senior Irene Harris and Jon process. Classes run at each of School holiday activity week offering members of the youth theatre, the explored the skills, knowledge and the following age ranges: 3-5 year Spring different skillsTerm each(Jan-March) day. Two age groups: young people rehearsed every weekend DANCE CLASSES ideas that participants would need olds; 6-7 year olds; 8-10 year olds; Skills Term 8-11 year olds and 12-16 year olds.

“The tutor was very warm and fromtoJanuary through A week develop to beMarch. on-screen actors.

11-12 year olds; 13-14 year Skills Dance on offerClasses were: welcoming and did a fabulous job olds; at of intensive rehearsals was followed by Participants also gained knowledge 15-17soyear olds and 18-25 Introduction Singing Classes 8-11 Circusof Skills Monday teaching much in a short time.year ” of technical terms and ten days of performances in April.

The olds.

Specialist – Audition Prep and 12-16 ActingClass For Camera PARENT, WEEKLY CLASSES EDINBURGH methodologies used in filming creative team for the project was Mary for “SYT creates an excellent Tuesday Stage Make Up and television and film.

Each week the McCluskey, director, with Ross Brown atmosphere and environment for Special Effects Dance classes are developed by Dance group focussed on a different as MD and Carla Duggan as participants to have fun, develop new WINTER FESTIVAL Associate Eilidh McRae, and delivered by Wednesday Stories from the Wardrobe element orThe technique ofwas acting for choreographer. production skills and Thursday Musical Theatre a team of professional dance tutors. camera.

At the end of the term

by Finlay McLay. make friends.”

Once again, Winter Festival, was adesigned everyone left with a DVD of the work PARTICIPANT, (16) celebration of the creativity that they had made. thrives in weekly classes in

WEEKLY CLASSES

Weekly Classes, Glasgow For many young

ANNUAL R E PORT 2013/14

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people the weekly classes are their first point of an association with Scottish Youth Theatre. From attendance at classes a young person can go on to become involved with school holiday courses & special projects, summer festival courses, SYT Productions and, eventually, may end up working for the company as a trainee tutor.

“The ‘Skint Knees’ class has boosted my son’s confidence and is having a positive effect on other areas of his life.”

PARENT OF CLASS PARTICIPANT

“The energy, expertise and enthusiasm of SYT’s staff ensures my son has fun while learning drama skills.”

Weekly Glasgow throughout the Classes, year. Glasgow The ADVANCED ACTING classes and their tutors worked together to devise a new piece of During the Summer Term theatre based on the theme ‘Don’t Associate Director Kenny be scared, just be prepared, scary McGlashan ran weekly Advanced can be exciting’. Kenny Acting classes for senior members McGlashan, associate director, of the youth theatre. The sessions worked with a group of SYT were open to experienced Productions’ members to devise a super-structure or story that could participants that were interested in developing their acting skills in a accommodate each class’s piece more focussed environment. slotting into the main story. This Participants were challenged in method has worked well over the their improvisation, textual years with this year as no analysis and presentation skills. exception. Families and friends enjoyed 6 very different performances over two days in the “…a richly textured workshop that gained from the individuals differences Brian Cox Studio. and made the workshop something SPECIALIST CLASSES very special indeed.”

ACTING FOR CAMERA

In 2008/09, weekly classes operated as follows:

SCOTT MILLER, 20, CUMBERNAULD

T

HE provision of quality training is at the heart of Scottish Youth Theatre’s programme of activities.

Young people, Core Staff and Tutors all deserve training of an excellent standard. Scottish Youth Theatre will continue to strive to keep training standards high. The in-house tutor training scheme and tutor mentoring scheme, delivered by the Associates, Assistant Directors and Associate Artists, continues to offer excellent advice and training. These schemes provide quality assurance and ensure that workshop tutors employed by the youth theatre are of an acceptable standard.

IN-HOUSE TUTOR TRAINING – this method of training tutors allows the “house-style” in workshop delivery to be assured in new tutors. Senior members of the youth theatre who have been involved for at least one year as a workshop assistant are identified by the artistic team and are given the opportunity to train as a Scottish Youth Theatre classes tutor.

Each apprentice works at the rate of personal development best suited to their individual needs. Associate directors, Karen McGrady-Parker and Kat Wilson, have worked with the trainee tutors throughout the year. The Classes’ Associates provide frontline quality assurance.

SAC EVALUATION

PARENT OF CLASS PARTICIPANT

“I made a lot of new friends & learned how to stand in front of a camera and how it all works plus some good acting games which I really enjoyed.

“SYT productions gave me the time and space to evolve and improve my performance skills.

But more importantly it allowed me to grow as a person.”

DANCE CLASSES “Rebecca loves the dance classes… she now wants to be a ballerina! She loved learning new skills and

In 13/14, Scott Miller and Corrie McKendrick joined the scheme. The focus in this year has been on the

progression of candidates onto more responsible creative positions on SYT classes, courses and projects.

TRAINEE STAFF ❚ Jayne Austin Assistant Director (Movement) – Now’s The Hour Classes Associate – Edinburgh ❚ Nathan Byrne Director – Glasgow Foundation Course Classes Tutor – Edinburgh and Glasgow Workshop Tutor – Rail Respect Roadshow and Gie’s Peace Assistant Director and Performer – Frida and Frosty ❚ Scott Miller Assistant Director – Mary Queen of Scots Got Her Head Chopped Off ❚ Andrew Jeffrey Classes Tutor – Edinburgh ❚ James Beck Trainee Director – Glasgow Foundation and Edinburgh Junior Courses ❚ Kirsty Pennycook Trainee Director – Aberdeen Foundation Course ❚ Christie Mitchell Trainee Director – Aberdeen Junior Course ❚ Stephen McAveety Trainee Director – Glasgow Junior Course ❚ Jenni Wright Trainee Director – Glasgow Junior Course ❚ Anna Schneider Assistant Director Music, Now’s The Hour

WORK EXPERIENCE TRAINING ❚ Douglas Chalmers Lycee Jeanne d’Arc, France, June ❚ Alyx McLachlan Rosshall Academy, Glasgow, August ❚ David Healy St Thomas Aquinas, Glasgow, September ❚ Melanie McQuater Mearns Castle High, Glasgow, October ❚ Matthew Boyle St Ninian’s High School, Glasgow, November ❚ Rosa Edwards Rothesay Academy, Argyll & Bute, November ❚ Jonathan Dorris Strathaven School, South Lanarkshire, December ❚ Jayson Nelson Jordanhill School, Glasgow, January ❚ Amy Alexander Craigmount High School, Edinburgh, February

STAFF TRAINING ❚ National Roadshow Tutor Training Phases 1 and 2 ❚ Rail Respect Tutor Training ❚ Child Protection – General and Internet/Social Media ❚ First Aid ❚ Fire Warden ❚ Duty Manager (in house)

TRAINING

SPRING SKILLS DEVELOPMENT TERM

Dance classes have grown in popularity and for Winter 2013 term the Tiny Twisters and Junior Jumpers Technique and Creative Movement classes were combined, and rebranded as Skint Knees Dance. Additional tutors were brought on board to allow more young people to take part in dance classes.

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In Edinburgh, supported by Class Associate Jayne Austin, end of term sharings took place at the Scottish Storytelling Centre, and classes were given the opportunity to perform in a technically supported sharing.

TRAINING

NationalROADSHOW

“Very enjoyable! Pupils loved the experience, I have been receiving positive feedback ever since.

We would love to have SYT back! SYT staff were friendly and very enthusiastic.”

LISA, TEACHER, ABOYNE ACADEMY

S

“Amazing! Felt so professional and got so much ideas from it! Please come back!”

PUPIL, FRASERBURGH ACADEMY

Page to Stage (2hr) S1+ Creatively explore staging, characterisation and direction using tried and tested theatre techniques to gain a fuller understanding of a text and its relevance to young people today.

Text to choose from: ❚ Shakespeare (Macbeth or A Midsummer Night’s Dream) ❚ Scottish Contemporary (Mary Queen of Scots Got Her Head Chopped Off or Edwin Morgan poetry)

Intro to Devising Theatre (2hr) S1+ Games, exercises, improvisation and devising; participants can learn and experience drama skills within a fun, relaxed and creative environment. Focus is on building group work skills and developing confidence while enhancing learning. Using fast paced theatrical exercises participants will develop ideas from a range of stimuli including props, images, and music to create their own unique pieces of theatre.

WORKSHOP MENU “Thank you for bringing a professionally delivered workshop, though I have come to expect nothing Exploring and developing skills and techniques for ensemble performance, the less from SYT!” GRAHAM, TEACHER, CRIEFF HIGH SCHOOL young people will develop and present their own piece of theatre using specially commissioned texts from Scottish Youth Theatre and incorporating movement and ROADSHOW voice. This is a chance to experience the AUTUMN 2013 – AREAS COVERED: exciting potential for performing as an ❚ Ross and Cromarty – Fortrose ensemble.

Academy, Invergordon Academy ❚ Shetland – Aith Junior HS, Brae Independence? (2hr) S1+ Junior HS, Baltasound Junior HS, Mid Engage in the debate of Scottish Yell, Junior HS, Shetland Islands Council, independence and explore the question, Sandwick Junior HS “what does Scotland mean to you?”. ❚ Orkney – Stromness Academy, Kirkwall The vote may not be until next year but Grammar, Westray Junior HS, Deerness now is the hour – to seek, to ask, to find.

Youth Club, West End Theatre Group Participants will identify their aspirations, ❚ Caithness and Sutherland – Thurso fears, questions and views on a vote that

The Power of the Ensemble (2hr) S1+

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Roadshow 2013, Blairgowrie High School, Perthshire

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16 SEN Roadshow 2014, Saltersgate School, Dalkeith

Roadshow 2013, Montrose Academy, Angus

High School ❚ Inverness – Kiltarlity Youth Club, Culloden Academy, Kirkhill Youth Club ❚ Stirling – Stirling High School, Balfron High School, Wallace High School, Bannockburn High School ❚ Dundee – St Paul’s Academy, Grove Academy, Harris Academy, St John’s RC High School ❚ Islay – Islay High School ❚ Ardnamurchan – Ardnamurchan High School ❚ Perth and Kinross – Perth High School, Perth Grammar, Perth Academy, Crieff High School, Blairgowrie High School, Auchterarder Community School, St John’s RC Academy ❚ Skye – Portree High School Plockton – Plockton High School Benbecula/South Uist – Sgoil Lionacleit ❚ Barra – Castlebay Community School ❚ Harris and Lewis – Nicolson Institute, An Lanntair Youth Theatre ❚ Ullapool and Gairloch – Ullapool High School ❚ Moray – Elgin Academy, Elgin High School, Buckie High School, Speyside High School ❚ Fort William – Lochaber High School Argyll and Bute – Tobermory High School, Tarbert Academy, Dunoon Grammar, Lomond School ❚ Aberdeen City – Aberdeen Grammar, Hazelhead Academy ❚ Angus – Arbroath Academy, Montrose Academy, Monifieth High School, Webster’s High School ❚ Aberdeenshire – Aboyne Academy, Portlethen Academy, Mackie Academy, Ellon Academy, Fraserburgh Academy

“Was having a bad day but this made me feel better!”

PUPIL, ST JOHN’S RC HIGH SCHOOL, DUNDEE

SEN ROADSHOW – MARCH 2014 “The facilitators had a very positive attitude to the children and were very encouraging. I found the whole exercise to be inspiring and life enhancing.”

JOHN, TEACHER, ASHCRAIG SCHOOL, GLASGOW

NATIONAL ROADSHOW

COTTISH Youth Theatre is delighted to have received funding from The Robertson Trust and The Gordon Fraser Charitable Trust enabling recommencement of the popular touring workshop programme, Roadshow. Throughout September, October and November 2013 Scottish Youth Theatre travelled to schools, community groups and youth theatres across northern and central Scotland offering free drama workshops. The workshop programme was delivered by Joanne Marr, the company’s Outreach and Access Officer, plus a team of theatre arts professionals with experience of working with young people of all ages. The team included: Kirsty Malone, Morna McGeogh, Tom Hobbins, Sharon Miller, Nathan Byrne, Stewart McLaren, Jennifer Hodson and Anna Schneider. Stephanie Falls also received Roadshow training as back up tutor.

will create this country’s future providing opportunities for deepening understanding of culture in Scotland and what the independence referendum means for young people today.

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ROADSHOW 2013

“The content was perfectly suited to the wide range of needs, abilities and ages of the pupils. All the pupils who took part said they had great fun and would like to do it again.”

LYNDA, TEACHER, LOCHGILPHEAD JOINT CAMPUS.

WORKSHOP MENU

NATIONAL ROADSHOW

Intro to Devising Theatre (1-1.5hs) S1+ Games, exercises, improvisation and devising; participants can learn and experience drama skills within a fun, relaxed and creative environment. Focus is on building group work skills and developing confidence while enhancing learning. Using specifically tailored theatrical exercises participants will develop ideas using a range of stimuli including: props, images, and music.

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Independence? (1-1.5hs) S1+ Engage in the debate of Scottish independence and explore the question, ‘what does Scotland mean to you?’

The vote may not be until September but now is the hour – to seek, to ask, to find.

Participants will identify their aspirations, fears, questions and views on a vote that will create this country’s future providing opportunities for deepening understanding of culture in Scotland and what the independence referendum means for young people today.

Shaken Up Shakespeare (1-1.5hs) S1+ Using movement and music to bring Shakespeare to life. Explore themes,

The focus of the workshop will be practical rather than text based.

Tin Forest (1-1.5hs) S1+ “There was once a wide windswept place, near nowhere and close to forgotten...”

Explore through drama, movement and music the world of the Tin Forest, a book by Helen Ward and Wayne Anderson. A place where dreams come alive, ideas grow and once forgotten or unwanted objects become things of beauty. Participants will use various performance techniques such as still image, soundscaping and mime to discover and respond to the story and themes of the Tin Forest. Using everyday objects in an imaginative way the young people will create and delve into its magical world.

“We worked using our imagination and also using props in different ways. We had to use our team building skills to put a play together.

Good fun and informative.”

PUPIL, FIRPARK SCHOOL, MOTHERWELL

SEN Roadshow 2014 – Areas Covered: ❚ Lochgilphead High School – Lochgilphead ❚ Kersland School – Paisley ❚ Mary Russell School – Paisley ❚ Kilpatrick School – Clydebank ❚ Central Advocacy Partners – Alloa ❚ Carrongrange School – Falkirk ❚ Woodlands School – Edinburgh ❚ The Yard – Edinburgh ❚ Saltersgate School – Dalkeith ❚ Firpark Special School – Motherwell ❚ Parkhill Secondary School – Cumbernauld ❚ Abercorn Secondary – Glasgow ❚ St Oswald’s ASN Secondary – Glasgow ❚ Hillpark Secondary Autism Unit – Glasgow ❚ Govan High Autism Unit – Glasgow ❚ Cartvale – Glasgow ❚ East Park School – Glasgow ❚ Ashcraig School – Glasgow ❚ Sanderson High School – East Kilbride ❚ James Reid School – Saltcoats

❚ Downs Syndrome Scotland – National ❚ Indepen-dance – National

“This was an excellent opportunity to help our pupils develop using their imagination to create stories. The workshop leaders were excellent and knew how to pitch the workshop to the children attending to match their needs.”

STEWART, TEACHER, ABERCORN SECONDARY, GLASGOW

“The content of the workshop opened up and had a great flexibility which allowed the young people to interpret it and express themselves in their own unique way. The group all thoroughly enjoyed it and were talking about it at the following club.

Interestingly, the group’s behaviour after the workshop was really good.

In their play they were interacting and engaging with one another in an extremely animated and positive manner. Though I can not be sure, I would attribute this to the theatre group. It also reached members of the group who are usually on the fringes of the play.”

HAILEY, PLAYWORKER, THE YARD ADVENTURE CENTRE, EDINBURGH

ROADSHOW AND SEN ROADSHOW TRAINING Geographical Roadshow 2013 involved 7 new workshops written by Scottish Youth Theatre’s Access and Outreach Officer. These were: Independence?, Power of the Ensemble, Intro to Devising Theatre and Page to Stage – Macbeth, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Edwin Morgan Poetry and Mary Queen of Scots Got Her Head Chopped Off. Ten Scottish Youth Theatre freelance staff attended a training day on Monday 9 September 2013, led by the Access and Outreach Officer. The day was a mixture of practically going through some of the exercises from each of the workshops as well as going through each workshop and explaining aims, objectives and desired outcomes.

Each freelancer was given a copy of the workshop plans as well as any background information which was useful in order to deliver the workshop.

The Independence? and Page to Stage: Mary Queen of Scots workshops particularly required tutors to do some research of their own before

SEN Roadshow 2014, Mary Russell School, Paisley

delivering the workshop. Information, links and publications were all provided to the tutors as part of the training day.

SEN Roadshow 2014 involved four workshops specifically designed for young people with additional support needs. These were: Intro to Devising Theatre, Independence?, Tin Forest and Shaken Up Shakespeare. The workshops were written initially by Scottish Youth Theatre’s Access and Outreach Officer and later input from Indepen-Dance’s National Dance Development Worker was also incorporated.

Planning meetings happened regularly in the run up to the tour and a practical training evening took place on Wednesday

26 February with a group of young people with additional support needs.

core) will be available in 2014 for Autism Awareness Training.

“You were nice people and I would like to see you again.”

ROADSHOW

PUPIL, JAMES REID SCHOOL, SALTCOATS

In addition to the Access and Outreach Officer and the National Dance Development Worker, two disabled artists also joined the SEN Roadshow team. Training for these two artists happened on a practical and ongoing basis throughout the tour.

As part of the partnership working between Scottish Youth Theatre and Indepen-Dance training opportunities for any interested SYT staff (freelance and

A total of 2,518 young people in 62 Schools, Youth Clubs and Youth Theatres took part in 104 workshops over the course of 6 weeks.

“T’was most excellent!”

PUPIL, PERTH ACADEMY

SEN ROADSHOW Over the 3 weeks a total of 332 young people with additional support needs took part in 35 workshops in 22 schools and groups.

NATIONAL ROADSHOW

The workshop programme was delivered by an inclusive team of theatre arts professionals, including Joanne Marr, Outreach and Access Officer from Scottish Youth Theatre and Hannah Terrell, a movement specialist from Indepen-dance, with experience of working with young people of all ages and abilities. Scottish Youth Theatre was also delighted to have Neil Price and Adam Sloan, two young disabled artists join the team. Each workshop was tailored for the specific needs of the group and maximum numbers for each workshop were 10.

imagery and characters created by the Bard in a creative, accessible, fun and interesting way. Participants will look at themes from a selection of Shakespeare’s best known plays including: The Tempest, Romeo and Juliet, A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Macbeth.

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Throughout March 2014 Scottish Youth Theatre travelled to SEN schools, ASN units and accessible community groups across Scotland offering free specialist led drama workshops.

“Whether I’m working with Shakespeare or leading those same drama classes that I remember so fondly – I’ve always felt incredibly grateful and lucky to be provided with such memorable opportunities and adventures.”

NATHAN, 22, GLASGOW

SYT Productions allows Scottish Youth Theatre to deliver its identified aims: ❚ Identifying suitable participants. ❚ Providing participants with the opportunity to develop and challenge their skills/talents. ❚ Training participants through the performance process. ❚ Giving participants the opportunity to showcase their skills on various professional stages throughout Scotland. ❚ Affording participants the opportunity of working with leading theatre professionals. ❚ Allowing participants to learn, experiment and sometimes fail in a safe working environment. ❚ The company acts as a conduit into professional training and the profession. ❚ Allows the participants to have fun as they are developing vocational skills.

The personal and professional Family Storytime, How The Camel Got His Hump (Photo by Chris Young)

FAMILY STORYTIME “Very interactive – really enjoyed seeing children engaging more on this visit. Great confidence builder!”

PARENT, FAMILY STORYTIME

SYT Productions continues to be at the core of these successful, interactive storytelling sessions for 3-7 year olds and their families. Karen McGrady-Parker oversees all Family Storytime activities.

Family Storytime became a registered trademark in 13/14.

Summer Season 2013 Rudyard Kipling’s Just So Stories How The Camel Got His Hump 4 & 5 May (Edwin Morgan Studio) 5 May – Family Storytime party 11 May (Festival Theatre Edinburgh) How The Alphabet Was Made 18 & 19 May (Edwin Morgan Studio) 25 May (Festival Theatre Edinburgh) The Crab That Played With The Sea 1 & 2 June (Edwin Morgan Studio) 8 June (Festival Theatre Edinburgh) The Elephant’s Child 15 & 16 June (Edwin Morgan Studio) 22 June (Festival Theatre Edinburgh) 19 July (Aboyne Festival)

SYT PRODUCTIONS

The Weegie Board (Photo by Chris Young)

development of these participants is important to the future of the creative industries in Scotland. Scottish Youth Theatre is best placed to allow their talents to grow in a safe and professional environment. Such is the demand for this company’s work that its programme of activities has expanded to necessitate the formation of an almost full time resident company.

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Frida and Frosty, Festive Show 2013 (Photo by John Johnston)

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SYTproductions

SYT PRODUCTIONS

S

YT Productions is the youth theatre’s high profile, high quality performance group.

The company continues to identify talented young actors, directors and technicians and to give them the opportunity to further develop their skills through challenging performance and workshop projects. It is made up of senior members of Scottish Youth Theatre who have shown particular skills and talent for performance, production and delivering projects. More recently, the company has held open auditions for specific projects making SYT Productions accessible to other talented young people. The group has devised, developed and performed at many prestigious national and international.

SYT Productions has also successfully toured nationally & internationally with a variety of productions.

PARENT, FAMILY STORYTIME

EASTER 2013 INTERACTIVE PRODUCTION THE SKY IS FALLING

Winter Season 2013 – Classic Tales

“We had to book more tickets as soon as we left!”

The Enormous Turnip 4 & 15 September (Edwin Morgan Studio) 21 September ( Midfest, Midlothian) 29 September (Eastwood Theatre) The Elves and The Shoemaker 28 & 29 September (Edwin Morgan Studio) 29 September – Family Storytime party How Jumbo Went To The Moon 12 & 13 October (Edwin Morgan Studio) 20 October (Scottish International Storytelling Festival) The Magic Porridge Pot 26 & 27 October (Edwin Morgan Studio) Three Billy Goats Gruff 9 & 10 November (Edwin Morgan Studio) Total audience 542

PARENT, THE SKY IS FALLING, APRIL 2013

“My favourite was Chicken Liken because she did a good dance!”

CHILD, THE SKY IS FALLING, APRIL 2013

“The effort and imagination that goes into these SYT productions is exemplary, as is the ready way in which the cast engage with their audience.”

THE SKY IS FALLING, THE HERALD, APRIL 2013

SYT PRODUCTIONS

Directed by Fraser MacLeod with professional performer Anna Schneider and SYT Productions participants Christie Mitchell and Martin Quinn “Great performance. What a fabulous devised a new promenade, interactive and musical production inspired by the way to spend the day!” story of Henny Penny/Chicken Licken.

PARENT, FAMILY STORYTIME Finlay McLay returned to design a beautiful farmyard set complete with Scottish Book Trust Tour chicken coup, duck pond, Rooster’s hay We received £600 grant to tour Three bales and fox hole. The production was Billy Goats Gruff to East End venues – supported technically by Ritchie Young, Garthamlock Family Centre and Cranhill who provided projections and Laura Family Centre.

Walshe as Stage Manager.

Spring Season 2014 – Aesop’s Fables Total audience 1,309 The Boy Who Cried Wolf “It really was a privilege to attend 25 & 26 January such an entertaining production and The Town Mouse and the Country see such acting talent from the Mouse 8 & 9 February young performers.”

The Bundle of Sticks

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22 & 23 February The Lion and the Mouse 8 & 9 March The Hare and the Tortoise 22 & 23 March Total audience 678

“Enthusiastic, well paced, encouraging participation, fun!”

PARENT, FAMILY STORYTIME

Extra Performances in East Renfrewshire February – Eastwood Theatre: 2 performances of The Town Mouse and the Country Mouse.

Redbridge Drama Centre, London* 18 & 19 September 4 performances Scottish Storytelling Centre, Edinburgh 21 September 1 performance *These performances were followed by a Q & A with the audience.

Total Audience 518

“Engagingly told and well acted...

An hour of good, spooky fun.”

THE WEEGIE BOARD, ALL EDINBURGH THEATRE, SEPTEMBER 2013

PORRIDGE IN THE MORNING Working with director John Binnie and writer Aladair Fraser, four members of SYT Productions rehearsed and performed this production in June 2013.

Performances took place in the Panopticon Music Hall in Glasgow.

NOW’S THE HOUR – BBC KNOWLEDGE AND LEARNING “Fabulous performance of Now’s the Hour... Not a dry eye in the house!”

CLARE ADAMSON MSP

From the previous two productions of Now’s the Hour Scottish Youth Theatre entered discussions with BBC Knowledge and Learning about creating a new version of the show to be made into a documentary. The original creative team returned to work with a cast made up of previous cast members, successful auditionees and a selection from BBC’s Generation 2014 project. This new cast redeveloped the entire script of the production to include new characters, sketches and discussion points. The rehearsal period and performance was documented by a crew and made into a documentary that aired on BBC 2 Scotland in April 2014.

Total audience of the performance 117

ANNABEL M GOLDIE MSP, THE WEEGIE BOARD

THE WEEGIE BOARD TOUR – AUTUMN 2013 A short tour of the production in September 2013. Venues visited: Eastwood Theatre 6 September 1 performance Beacon Arts Centre, Greenock 7 September 1 performance Paisley Arts Centre* 11 September 1 performance Brian Cox Studio* 13 & 14September 2 performances

“A fresh, youthful look at Scottish identity and the big question.”

JOAN MCALPINE MSP

KILLING ME SOFTLY & INSTANT As part of Glasgay Festival 2013, SYT Productions collaborated with writer/director John Binnie to create a double bill of theatre pieces that played in the Brian Cox Studio and toured to local communities. Participants Leah Byrne, Brandon Logan and Jonathon

Instant (Photo by Robin Mitchell)

Combe were all selected to form the cast of Killing Me Softly by John Binnie.

To contrast and compliment the piece, written and set in the 1980s, Associate Artistic Director Fraser MacLeod worked with 10 other SYT Productions participants, over the October school holiday, to devise a new piece of theatre exploring young people’s attitudes towards sex, relationships and secrets today in Instant. Performances took place in the Brian Cox Studio, Lodging House Mission, Glasgow Caledonia University, Govan High School, Platform, Easterhouse and Castlemilk Centre.

The was a special performance with Ignite Theatre in Knightswood which saw the youth theatre perform their own devised piece with the SYT Productions performances. Directors John Binnie and Fraser MacLeod delivered accompanying workshops to: ❚ Lourdes Secondary School ❚ Govan High School ❚ Darnley Youth Club ❚ Castlemilk Maureen Cope Centre ❚ Castlemilk Community Centre ❚ Jenniburn Community Centre Total Audience 483

“Congratulations to all involved in Killing Me Softly and Instant. I was hugely impressed by the commitment and ability of the cast.

Great work – a real credit to the SYT.” COUNCILLOR MARTIN RHODES, GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL

THE TRENCH A collaboration with NYOS, NYCOS and YDance – a production to mark the centenary of WWI. Representatives from each of the

Killing Me Softly (Photo by Robin Mitchell)

companies met on 17 and 18 of August to “play”, share ideas and practice. The creative team for the weekend was Director Mary McCluskey (SYT), Choreographer Anna Kendrick (YDance), Playwright Bryan Beattie, Composer/MD Stephen Deezley and Composer/MD Oliver Searle.

FESTIVE INTERACTIVE PRODUCTION 2013 FRIDA AND FROSTY “A visually magical space... Ideal for running, jumping, rolling and makebelieve games that are a key part of this Scottish Youth Theatre show for very young children.”

FRIDA AND FROSTY, THE HERALD , DECEMBER 2013

Continuing in the company’s tradition of providing interactive family entertainment, the company led by Mary McCluskey, Director, and Finlay McLay, Designer, Nathan Byrne as professional performer and assistant director with trainee actors, Katee McCulloch and Eilidh Zerebiec, devised a play following the adventures of Frosty the Snowman and his new friend, Frida. The production played in the Brian Cox Studio from 28 November to 30 December. An excerpt from the show was be performed at “Glasgow Loves Christmas” in George Square in December.

Total Audience 2,545

“Completely blown away with the performances and the production.”

PARENT, FRIDA AND FROSTY

“It exactly matched our children’s needs. We have been before and will come back again.”

PARENT, FRIDA AND FROSTY

FRECKLEFACE STRAWBERRY THE MUSICAL A family musical theatre production based on the children’s books by Julianne Moore.

SYT Productions played the main cast supported by a newly introduced Youth Theatre Ensemble Performance Course for 11-14 year olds. The production was directed by Mary McCluskey with Ross Brown as MD, Carla Duggan as choreographer and Finlay McLay as Designer.

Ensemble Auditions 7 & 8 December Rehearsals 25 & 26 January (and every weekend until 31 March) 1-10 April – Intensive rehearsals Performances 11-21 April (Brian Cox Studio)

PERSIMMON HOMES SYT Productions was invited to perform at the Persimmon Home annual charity fundraiser event at the Central Hotel Glasgow. Working with Associate Artistic Director Fraser MacLeod and Musical Director Gary Cameron the group of 9 performed a medley of songs including Diamonds by Rihanna, Counting Stars by One Republic and other popular hits.

The company was grateful for a generous donation from Persimmon Homes.

“Being a member of SYT Productions played a big part in my decision to turn a hobby into a career. The professional work ethic, practices and opportunities they offer are so beneficial to any young person wanting to pursue a career in this industry.”

VICKI MARELLA LEECH, 20, GLASGOW

SYT PRODUCTIONS

“It was great how the story was brought to life and kept even the youngest children engaged.”

March – Eastwood Theatre: 2 performances of The Boy Who Cried Wolf.

March – Giffnock Library: 2 performances of The Hare and the Tortoise.

Total audience 110

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How The Whale Got His Throat 29 & 30 June (Edwin Morgan Studio) 3 July (Eastwood Theatre) 4 July (Barrhead Community Centre) 19 July (Aboyne Festival) 20 & 21 July (Merchant City Festival) Total audience 508

SPECIALprojects

“Amazing…Fun…Brilliant…Awesome…Thanks…

Great…Happy…Rebelistic…Swag…Beast…Brill…”

PUPILS, ST. TIMOTHY’S PRIMARY SCHOOL

S SPECIAL PROJECTS

COTTISH Youth Theatre continues to use its Special Projects to deliver its outreach and social inclusion activities. The nature of the programme is continually changing to meet the needs of the youth theatre’s client groups. Throughout the year, Scottish Youth Theatre involved itself in special projects either initiated by the youth theatre in partnership with other organisations or in response to requests from outside bodies. 2013/14 saw a variety of projects being delivered, including the following:

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RENFREWSHIRE YOUNG DADS With extended funding from the Big Lottery, this project ran throughout the summer at The Wynd in Paisley. A Family Open Day at the Lagoon Centre, Paisley was held to encourage recruitment with 14 families attending.

The project culminated in a series of activities to celebrate the commitment to the project by young dad, Lee. This

included; producing a printed copy of his storybook, working with a professional visual artist, radio recording of his story performed by SYT Productions and aired on Pulse FM. This project was delivered

by Steven Leach and Mark Traynor as project directors with Stephen McAveety as project assistant.

were written by Associate DirectorProjects, Kat Wilson, in consultation with the British Transport Police. SYT also worked closely with fellow project partners Young Scot and Active Schools North Lanarkshire to identify suitable schools and communities, who would most benefit from Rail Respect activity.

Kat Wilson delivered the workshops in schools, alongside drama tutors Nathan Byrne, Mary Gapinski, Steven Leach, Debbie Montgomery and Anita Rea. TEACHER, CARRONGRANGE SCHOOL, Phase 1 of the project was delivered FALKIRK, RAIL RESPECT from March 2013 to March 2014. While most of the workshops took place in Central Scotland, a small pilot programme RAIL RESPECT was delivered in Midlothian and the Scottish Youth Theatre’s partnership project Scottish Borders. Initial workshops took with Network Rail continued throughout place in Cumbernauld in March 2013.

2013-14, with 90 rail safety drama workshops delivered to nurseries, primary The following schools received Rail schools, secondary schools and youth Respect workshops from May 2013 to groups throughout Scotland. Using March 2014: songs, games, improvisation and real life ❚ Gylemuir Primary School, Edinburgh stories, participants gain a better ❚ Dalry Primary School, Edinburgh understanding of rail safety and their part ❚ St Joseph’s Primary School, Edinburgh in being a responsible citizen. Workshops ❚ St Stephen’s RC Primary School, Glasgow

“Pupils were asked very clearly to put themselves in the place of others and think about the decisions each character made.”

“A useful tool to allow pupils to explore situations in a safe environment.”

TEACHER, FORRESTER HIGH SCHOOL, EDINBURGH, RAIL RESPECT

Phase 2 of the project focused on secondary schools, and workshops took place in the following schools: ❚ Forrester High School, Edinburgh ❚ Graeme High School, Falkirk ❚ Larbert High School ❚ Linlithgow Academy ❚ North Lanarkshire Council community engagement event (Bellshill) ❚ St Augustines High School, Edinburgh ❚ St Rochs High School, Glasgow ❚ Stirling High School

“The hot seating, role play and improvisations were totally suited to the delivery of the important message.

Drama is a fabulous vehicle to promote and deliver rail safety.”

TEACHER, LARBERT HIGH SCHOOL, FALKIRK, RAIL RESPECT

on previous projects delivered and a chance to ask questions at the end.

PROMOTE YT SYMPOSIUM The Old Sheriff Court acted as host venue for this national symposium of youth theatre.

Scottish Youth Theatre co-led the youth element of symposium in November 2013.

ARROCHAR PRIMARY – ST TIMOTHY’S HIDDEN HERITAGE OF PRIMARY SCHOOL A LANDSCAPE In January 2014, Joanne Marr, Access A living history performance project connecting children with local history. In May 2013, Scottish Youth Theatre worked with the Hidden Heritage Project and Arrochar Primary School, using drama to explore the community’s Viking history.

Drama director Rhowenna McGregor, Creative Specialist Emma Bowen and trainee director Jennifer Hodson worked with P1-3 and P4-7 pupils to create drama scenes, movement sequences, props and film showing Arrochar’s Viking history. The final piece was performed at an informal sharing in the school.

“You have done exactly what we hoped for this part of the project – taught them a bit about their history in a fun and memorable way.”

SUE FURNESS, ARROCHAR PRIMARY, HIDDEN HERITAGE OF A LANDSCAPE

MAYBOLE YOUNG ARTS FESTIVAL Debbie Montgomery led a specialist stage make up workshop as part of a youth arts festival in Maybole, South Ayrshire. The workshop was with young people aged 9 to 12 year old and focused on how to create gory ghosts and scary scars.

UNIVERSITY OF WESTERN SCOTLAND CPD In October 2013, Karen McGrady-Parker led two CPD sessions with 70 PGCE students at University of West of Scotland.

The practical sessions looked at ‘Using drama across the Curriculum’ and considered how any subject can be reinforced through the use of drama.

Each session included a short presentation

and Outreach Officer and Imogen Craven, drama workshop assistant, visited St Timothy’s Primary School in Coatbridge to deliver two workshops over two weeks to P7 pupils on the theme of friendship and responsible citizenship. These workshops explored respecting other people’s ideas and accepting each other’s differences. Participants enjoyed creating their own scenes and sharing them with each other.

“Thank you everyone from Scottish Youth Theatre loved it today.

Thumbs up!”

PUPIL, ST. TIMOTHY’S PRIMARY SCHOOL

GIE’S PEACE ANTISECTARIANISM PROJECT In October 2013, Scottish Youth Theatre began working in Inverclyde with the Gie’s Peace Anti-Sectarianism Project.

Working with an intergenerational group of participants, drama director Rhowenna Macgregor used musical theatre script (commissioned by Scottish Youth Theatre in 2007) as stimulus for discussion and devising, and presented an informal sharing at the Beacon Arts Centre in December 2013.

Phase 2 of the project commenced in February 2014 and was delivered by Associate Director-Projects, Kat Wilson, and trainee director Nathan Byrne. This phase focused on participants’ personal experiences of sectarianism and used live performance, media and film to create a sharing performance to be performed at the Beacon Arts Centre studio in May 2014.

SPECIAL PROJECTS

Gie’s Peace Anti-sectarianism Project, Greenock

Borders and Midlothian Pilot Schools: ❚ Newtongrange Primary School, Midlothian ❚ St Andrew’s Primary School, Midlothian ❚ Heriot Primary School, Midlothian ❚ Burgh Primary School, Galashiels ❚ St Margaret’s Primary School, Galashiels ❚ Glendinning Terrace Primary School, Galashiels ❚ Balmoral Primary School, Galashiels ❚ Langlee Primary School, Galashiels ❚ St Peter’s Primary School, Galashiels Galashiels Academy ❚ Stow Primary School, Scottish Borders ❚ Tweedbank Primary School, Scottish Borders ❚ Clovenfords Primary School, Scottish Borders

The partnership with Network Rail will continue throughout 2014 with the following activity being planned: ❚ A second phase of workshops in Midlothian and the Borders, offering workshops to every school on the Borders Railway route. ❚ A new phase of workshops for primary schools along the Glasgow-Whifflet train line. ❚ A new strand of workshops, focusing on level crossing safety.

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❚ Anderston Primary School, Glasgow ❚ Royston Primary School, Glasgow ❚ Barmulloch Primary School, Glasgow ❚ Bonnytoun Nursery, Linlithgow ❚ Springfield Primary School, Linlithgow ❚ Low Port Primary School, Linlithgow ❚ Linlithgow Primary School ❚ St Joseph’s RC Primary School, Falkirk ❚ Hallglen Primary School, Falkirk ❚ Antonine Primary School, Falkirk ❚ Allan’s Primary School, Stirling ❚ Wallace High School, Stirling ❚ Coatbridge High School

“Before I came to SYT I was a shy and timid teenager who could barely stand in front of his class in school, never mind a paying audience.

SYT continues to allow me to work on interesting projects tackling important issues, I can’t think of a better way to spend my time.” ❚ Killing Me Softly – rehearsals and performances ❚ Instant – rehearsals and performances ❚ Frida & Frosty – rehearsals and performances ❚ Now’s The Hour – BBC Knowledge and Learning – rehearsals, performances and filming ❚ Freckleface Strawberry The Musical – rehearsals

Edwin Morgan Studio: ❚ Family Storytime Summer Season 2013 – rehearsals and performances ❚ Glasgow Junior Course – rehearsals Scottish Youth Theatre continues to meet and performances regularly with NYCOS, NYOS and YDance ❚ Family Storytime Winter Season 2013 to share ideas and methods of best practice.

– rehearsals and performances The group also lobbies the Scottish ❚ Theatre Toolbox – October week Government as a unit. Plans were initiated holiday course in 12/13 for a proposed collaborative ❚ Winter Festival 2013 – performances performance piece involving all four ❚ Easter Musical Theatre Course 2014 companies. The group has been working – rehearsals and performances together towards the implementation of ❚ Family Storytime Spring Season 2014 Scottish Government’s Time To Shine.

– rehearsals and performances

NATIONAL YOUTH PERFORMING ARTS COMPANIES

Family Storytime, The Magic Porridge Pot

BRIAN COX STUDIO & EDWIN MORGAN STUDIO In 2013/14, the youth theatre continued to move towards the establishment of these two spaces as child, young person and family city centre venues. The programme for this year included:

SCOTTISH YOUTH THEATRE PERFORMANCES AND PROJECTS Brian Cox Studio: ❚ The Sky Is Falling ❚ Glasgow Foundation Course – performances ❚ Now’s The Hour ❚ The Trench – collaboration with YDance/NYOS/NYCOS ❚ The Weegie Board – rehearsals and performances ❚ Theatre Toolbox – October week holiday course Frida and Frosty, Festive Show 2013 (Photo by John Johnston)

Other Performances and Projects: Brian Cox Studio: ❚ Birds of Paradise Theatre Company ❚ Youth Music Theatre UK ❚ Glasgay Festival ❚ The Mungo Boys ❚ University of West of Scotland ❚ Scotstoun Dance and Drama Academy ❚ See More Theatre Productions ❚ Knightswood Secondary School/Dance ❚ School of Scotland ❚ University of Strathclyde ❚ Scottish International Storytelling Festival ❚ Who cares? Scotland ❚ Delirium Productions Glasgow ❚ Glasgow Music Festival Edwin Morgan Studio: ❚ King’s Theatre/Dirty Dancing Press Release ❚ Who cares? Scotland ❚ Scottish International Storytelling Festival

WORK FOR 7 YEAR OLDS AND UNDER Scottish Youth Theatre has secured its place as provider of quality creative workshops and performances for this age group. Karen McGrady-Parker is Associate Director-Early Years. Members of SYT Productions create and perform these age specific productions. Family Storytime is popular with both children, parents, teachers and carers. The interactive productions are quickly becoming family favourites with audience numbers reaching over 2,500 at Christmas 2013. New developments are being explored with touring and work for 0-2yrs on the agenda for expansion.

FUTURE COLLABORATIONS Valued partnerships are at the core of Scottish Youth Theatre’s annual programme of activities. Between April 2013 and March 2014, the youth theatre continued to strengthen its partnerships with old friends. The company also initiated and responded to new contacts at a Scottish level, a UK level and on an international level. Scottish Youth Theatre’s programme of activities would not be as successful without the partnerships formed with other arts organisations and venues. Scottish Youth Theatre enjoyed working in collaboration with the following: ❚ Festival City Theatres Trust ❚ Aberdeen Performing Arts ❚ Youth Theatre Arts Scotland ❚ Network Rail ❚ Electric Theatre Workshop, Dumfries ❚ Federation of Scottish Theatre ❚ Glasgow Life ❚ Scottish Storytelling Centre ❚ East Renfrewshire Arts Team ❚ NYCOS ❚ NYOS ❚ YDance ❚ National Theatre of Scotland

RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

COTTISH Youth Theatre believes that the research and development of new activities and new partnerships is vital to the sustainability of the company in the current financial climate.

In 2013/14 the company worked hard to design and develop new activities. It also endeavoured to seek out like minded organisations for future collaborations.

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RESEARCH&development

RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

DARRYL, 19, BEARSDEN

“I just wanted to thank you for all the support you gave me this week. You have wonderful staff and a great space.”

THANIA ACARON, DANCE AND MOVEMENT PSYCHOTHERAPIST

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the oldSHERIFFcourt

THE OLD SHERIFFF COURT

T

Glasgow Youth Film Festival event at the Old Sheriff Court

Conference at the Old Sheirff Court

and Young People ❚ Scotstoun Dance and Drama Academy ❚ Scottish Book Trust** ❚ Scottish Care ❚ Scottish Community Development Centre ❚ Scottish Consortium for Learning Disability** ❚ Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations ❚ Scottish Independent Advocacy Alliance* ❚ Scottish Mentoring Network ❚ Scottish National Heritage ❚ Scottish Police Authority ❚ Scottish Recovery Network ** ❚ Scottish Refugee Council ❚ Scottish Resource Centre for Woman* ❚ Scottish Social Services Council ❚ Scottish Storytelling Centre ❚ Scottish Women's Aid** ❚ See More Theatre * ❚ Shakespeare Schools Festival ❚ Shakespeare Youth Festival ❚ Social Care Ideas Factory* ❚ Strathclyde Theatre Studies** ❚ SURF ❚ Tall Poppy Consultancy ❚ Tharpaland Kadampa Meditation Centre* ❚ Tin Forest ❚ Trainer in Presentation Skills** ❚ Tron Theatre ❚ Tron Theatre/Stellar Quines ❚ Turning Point Scotland * ❚ Unity Enterprise ❚ University of Strathclyde*** ❚ University of West of Scotland* ❚ Violence Against Women ❚ Visible Fictions ❚ Voluntary Action Fund* ❚ Who Cares Scotland ❚ YDance ❚ YMCA George Williams College ❚ Young Scot* ❚ Youth Companies ❚ Youth Music Theatre UK

“Thanks again for making our event so successful, you guys are super professional and helpful.”

SASHA MCDOUGALL, SCOTTISH WOMEN’S AID

KEY DENOTES:

(AGM) = Annual General Meeting (A) (C) (F) (M) (O)

= = = = =

Auditions Conference Filming Meeting Other

(P) (R) (T) (W)

* More than 1 booking Less 5 ** Between 5 & 10 bookings *** More than 10 bookings

= Performance = Rehearsal = Training = Workshops or Classes

THE OLD SHERIFF COURT

❚ Glasgow 2014ltd Commonwealth ❚ Glasgow Airport ❚ Glasgow City Council** ❚ Glasgow City Council Education Services ❚ Glasgow Film Theatre ❚ Glasgow Life** ❚ Glasgow Life – Gaelic Arts ❚ Glasgow School of Art* ❚ Glasgow Womens Aid* ❚ Grid Iron Theatre Company* VENUE USERS 13/14: ❚ Guilford School of Acting ❚ 1 in 100* ❚ Haemophilia Scotland ❚ Aberdeen International Youth Festival ❚ Heather Gill – Festive Show Party ❚ Aconite Productions ❚ Hepatitis Scotland ❚ Adam Smith College*** ❚ Home Group ❚ Adoption UK ❚ Housing Options Scotland ❚ Alcohol, Drugs Communities ❚ Ian Reid Design – NHS & Glasgow ❚ Animate Consulting School of Art ❚ Ankur Productions ❚ Impact Arts ❚ Bard in the Botanics ❚ Improvement Service ❚ Barrowland Ballet** ❚ Inspiring Scotland* ❚ Birds of Paradise*** ❚ Interact Roleplay ❚ British Sign Language Broadcasting Trust ❚ Iriss ❚ Capability Scotland ❚ IRRV Scotland & Nothern Ireland ❚ Carers Net ❚ ITV ❚ Carer's Trust* ❚ Jane Brodie School of Dance ❚ Carers Trust Scotland* ❚ Joy Works ❚ Child Poverty Action Group ❚ Keeping Scotland Beautiful ❚ Children In Scotland ❚ Knightswood Dance School ❚ Coalition for Racial Equality & Rights ❚ Lesley Beastall Casting* ❚ Common Purpose ❚ LGBT Youth Scotland* ❚ Council for Voluntary Service Inverclyde ❚ Lloyds TSB ❚ Craft Scotland ❚ London Youth Theatre ❚ Cultural Enterprise Office* ❚ Mull Theatre ❚ Culture Republic ❚ Mungo Boys ❚ Dance House*** ❚ National Autistic Society Training ❚ Dance House – Creative Labs** ❚ National Theatre of Scotland** ❚ Dani Rae – Some Other Mothers ❚ NHS ❚ Delirium Productions ❚ NHS Film Screening ❚ Desitin ❚ NHS Health Scotland** ❚ FST Birthday Party ❚ NHS Leverndale Hospital ❚ Dirty Dancing ❚ Nile Experience & Design ❚ Down’s Syndrome Scotland ❚ Nina Gold Casting ❚ Education Services ❚ NSPCC ❚ Edurne Mateos ❚ NYCOS ❚ Party – Festive Show ❚ Old Sheriff Court residents ❚ Engage Scotland ❚ Orla O'Connor Casting* ❚ Equity ❚ Persimmons Homes/ SYT ❚ Ethnic Minorities Law Centre* ❚ Planning Aid for Scotland ❚ Families Need Fathers ❚ Play Scotland ❚ Federation of Scottish Theatre ❚ Plunkett Foundation* ❚ Fire Exit** ❚ Project Scotland* ❚ Firstport* ❚ Youth Theatre Arts Scotland/Promote YT ❚ Fraser Consulting ❚ Porridge in the Morning/John Binnie ❚ Frozen Charlotte Productions ❚ Random Accomplice ❚ FST Birthday Party** ❚ Royal Conservatoire of Scotland* ❚ Gaelic College of Skye ❚ RUNREV Ltd ❚ GCC Social Work Services ❚ SACRO* ❚ Generations Working Together* ❚ Scotland's Commissioner for Children

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HE venue is now an established city venue for conferences, meetings, rehearsal space and performances. Scottish Youth Theatre uses the building facilities more and more for our own programme of workshops, classes, projects and performances.

“...What a really really great job Scottish Youth Theatre did of Mary Queen of Scots last year... Like I told you at the time, it was a thrill for me. They were so direct and true, that SYT gang of yours...”

“SYT is such a fun place to be and I will definitely come back next term.”

PARTICIPANT, WEEKLY CLASSES, EDINBURGH

Creative Scotland – for its continuing support of Scottish Youth Theatre as a Foundation Funded organisation. The company appreciates this recognition of the youth theatre’s programme of activities for young people across Scotland.

Glasgow City Council – for their commitment to continued revenue support of Scottish Youth Theatre.

The company remains an integral part of the cultural life of Glasgow, operating within the city centre in addition to bringing thousands of children, young people and their families to Glasgow every year.

Awards For All Scotland – for providing the funding necessary to pilot an innovative project for young fathers in Renfrewshire.

AmbITion Scotland (Make:IT:Happen grant for organisational development) – who have helped the company to purchase the necessary equipment to develop its digital presence by creating interesting, relevant and engaging online content, with a focus on video.

Since April 2013, the Marketing team and the Artistic team have used the equipment to enrich a number of campaigns, day-to-day social media content, as well as to document projects and generally develop the company’s digital capacity The Bank of Scotland Foundation – whose support made possible a new Access and Outreach position within the company in 2013/14.

Other Grants Glasgow’s Commonwealth Employment Initiative, Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations, Big Lottery Community and Families Funds Trust Funds Christina Mary Hendry, Scottish Youth Theatre Trust Donations Natalie Allison, Jim Thompson, Angela Constance, Helen Battersby, Douglas Brown, Suzie Weatherston, Mary Gapinski Other Support Persimmon Homes Scottish Youth Theatre would also like to express its thanks to everyone who makes personal donations to the company throughout the year, including members of the Yellow Brick Road, Emerald City and Ruby Slippers clubs: The Carr Family, Dr. Bill Doig, The Hain Family, Lily McCord, Ruari McNeil, Jim Thompson, Bryan Wilson and Meghan Wilson. Their enthusiasm and commitment to the company are an inspiration and their contribution enables Scottish Youth Theatre to continue meeting its purpose.

GLASGOW 2014 COMMONWEALTH GAMES – CULTURE 2014 PROGRAMME – THE TIN FOREST Scottish Youth Theatre is working in association with the National Theatre of Scotland to deliver the International Performing Company element of The Tin Forest. The project is inspired by the bestselling children’s book of the same name

by Helen Ward and Wayne Anderson. The project is using the story as a metaphor for the industrial history of Glasgow and the regeneration of the city. The International Performing Company, run by Scottish Youth Theatre, will see 90 young people from across the Commonwealth to make one company that will split into five groups and perform at several iconic Glasgow sites and at various events. Sites include Barrowland Park, Custom House Quay, Waterbus Terminal, Tradeston Footbridge, Riverside Museum and the South Rotunda.

The project is directed by Fraser MacLeod, with music by Ross Brown, choreography by Carla Duggan and design by Kenny Miller. This exciting project is part of the Culture 2014 programme that runs alongside the Commonwealth Games. Over 30 theatre specialists will be engaged in the project. Countries represented are Australia, Canada, England, India, Jamaica, New Zealand, Northern Ireland, South Africa, Wales and, of course, Scotland.

MULTIMEDIA CENTRE – CENTRE FOR CHILDREN’S THEATRE DEVELOPMENT, PRISHTINA, KOSOVO – PEER GYNT FROM KOSOVO

part in a Q&A session where Scottish Youth Theatre’s aims, objectives and programme of activities were explained. The delegates were particularly interested in the company’s “issue based” workshops and productions.

– In September 2013, the Artistic Director/CEO attended a meeting relating to a proposed collaborative INDIAN project with Qendra Multimedia, EDUCATION Prishtina (Kosovo); Teater De Vill DELEGATES VISIT (Sweden); and Hessisches – January 2014. Creative Staatstheatre, Wiesbaden Scotland and British Council (Germany).

Scotland invited Scottish Youth Theatre to be part of an Arts Education Study Tour with Indian delegates in Scotland in January.

GRAZ AND KLAGENFURT, Indian delegates were representing: AUSTRIA Ministry of Culture, Ministry of – Mary McCluskey visited former Development of North East Region, Board Member, Douglas Brown.

Department of Education in Arts Mary and Douglas visited local and Aesthetics, State Government youth schools and youth theatre of Himachal Pradesh and State groups. Meetings compared local Government of Meghalaya. youth theatre and drama practices and methodologies.

Karen McGrady Parker along with SYT Productions participants gave a presentation on the history and ethos of Scottish Youth Theatre.

EDUCATION AND Focus was on the eclectic mix of YOUTH AFFAIRS DELEGATES MACAU education projects that is delivered

by Scottish Youth Theatre across – In October, 2013, the British Scotland with young people from Council asked Scottish Youth varying skill level, background and Theatre to host a delegation of ability. Participants talked about dignitaries from the Education, their experiences and how their Culture, Health and Youth participation has shaped who they Departments of the Macau are today. The day was hosted by Government. Mary McCluskey BBC Scottish Symphony with 5 members of SYT Productions gave the 40 delegates Orchestra and Scottish Youth Theatre had the treat of hearing a tour of the Old Sheriff Court. the Orchestra rehearsing.

After the tour, the group took

INTERNATIONAL

In particular the company wishes to thank the following:

The Robertson Trust and The Gordon Fraser Charitable Trust – both of whom are supporting the return of our National Roadshow programme over the next three years.

INTERNATIONAL

S

COTTISH Youth Theatre values each of the partnerships it develops and very much appreciates the financial support it has received in 2013/14.

The support of our partners, both old and new, has enabled the company to continue growing, innovating and providing quality theatre activities for children and young people across Scotland.

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fundersPARTNERScollaborators

FUNDERS, PARTNERS AND COLLABORATORS

LIZ LOCHHEAD, PATRON, 2013

SCOTTISH YOUTH THEATRE’S PATRONS

ALANA, 17, IRVINE

BRIAN COX

ALAN CUMMING

BILLY BOYD

BLYTHE DUFF

S Scotland’s national theatre ‘for & by’ young people, Scottish Youth Theatre receives patronage and support from many of stars of stage and screen.

Their support is much appreciated. The youth theatre’s family of patrons works steadfastly to support and promote our work out in the wider world. They also participate in and attend many of the company’s events and press calls throughout the year.

A

❚ Patrons Emma Thompson and Phyllida Law visited in early July, when after a tour of the building they lead a Q&A with participants. ❚ Participants welcomed new patron, Liz Lochhead, our Scots Makar. Liz

PHYLLIDA LAW

LIZ LOCHHEAD

COLIN McCREDIE Scotland’s National Theatre ‘For & By’ Young People

PATRONS & FRIENDS

BILL PATERSON

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ELAINE C SMITH

PAUL RILEY

EMMA THOMPSON

DAVID RINTOUL

RICHARD WILSON

visited a rehearsal and performances of her play Mary Queen of Scots Got Her Head Chopped Off. The cast enjoyed Liz’s tips and readings from the play. ❚ Elaine C Smith, patron, attended performances of Now’s The Hour and Mary Queen of Scots Got Her Head Chopped Off. Both casts and creative teams appreciated her support.

Colin McCredie, patron, continues to support the company by attending productions throughout the year. ❚ Fiona Hyslop MSP and Cabinet Secretary for Culture and External Affairs, and Clare Adamson MSP attended performances of Mary Queen of Scots Got Her Head Chopped Off. The cast and creative team appreciated an after show chat with Ms. Hyslop.

❚ MSPs Clare Adamson, Linda Fabiani and Joan McAlpine attended performances of Now’s The Hour.

Other MSP’s visits throughout the year included: ❚ Linda Fabiani ❚ Clare Adamson ❚ Joan McAlpine ❚ Annabel M Goldie ❚ Sandra White ❚ Angela Constance, Cabinet Secretary for Training, Youth and Women’s Employment ❚ Christian Allard ❚ Jean Urquhart Scottish Youth Theatre greatly appreciates the support it receives from its many friends and patrons.

STAFF

STAFF Mary McCluskey Artistic Director & Chief Executive Caroline Cosgrove Executive Director Fraser MacLeod Associate Artistic Director Karen McGrady-Parker Associate Director – Early Years Katriona Wilson Associate Director – Projects Joanne Marr Access & Outreach Officer Kyriakos Vogiatzis Marketing Officer Carol Rooney Finance & Payroll Manager Laura Ann Campbell Arts Administrator Laura Campbell Arts Administrator Clare Davis Arts Administrator Laura Spence Arts Administrator James Rooney Building Supervisor Ewa Jastzrebowska Assistant Building Supervisor Julia Dzikowska Cleaner ASSOCIATE ARTISTS Francesca Adair, Julie Austin, Cath Baxter, Ross Brown, David Carter, Dale Corlett, David Cosgrove, Mary Gapinski, Rebecca Kilbey, Fiona McGarry, Kenny McGlashan, Finlay McLay, Kieran McLoughlin, Kenny Miller, Sharon Miller, Neil Packham, Martyn Robertson, Pam Wardell, Robin Wilson

Throughout the year, Scottish Youth Theatre’s Board, Core Staff and Freelance Tutors worked hard to strengthen the youth theatre’s position as a national performing arts company and as an integral part of Scotland’s cultural community. Scottish Youth Theatre achieves this by: ❚ Training future creative industries’ employees. ❚ Creating audiences for the future. ❚ Producing quality theatre performances. ❚ Providing support to tutors, teachers and youth theatre leaders. ❚ Continuing the development of a programme of work for and by children and young people throughout Scotland and in the company’s home in Glasgow’s Merchant City. ❚ Making connections with established partners, new partners and international contacts. ❚ Helping participants, aged between 2.5 years and 25 years, to find their voice through participation in theatre arts.

In the year 2013/14, we welcomed to the Core Staff: Joanne Marr, Laura Campbell, Laura Ann Campbell, Claire Davis and Laura Spence. We said goodbye to Daniel Cosgrove, Pippa Dale, Sean Greenhorn and Keegan Friel. Scottish Youth Theatre wishes them well in their new ventures.

PATRONS, FRIENDS & STAFF

MARILYN BANNEN

33 ANNUAL R E PORT 2013/14

PATRONS& friends

“It has been amazing to learn and work alongside top theatre professionals. The creative journey will stay with me forever. My wonderful experience and huge support from staff has spurred me on to continue improving, learning and creating.”

“SYT has not only changed my life in giving me a substantial amount of acting experience I would not be able to obtain elsewhere but I have also made genuine friends for life who share a passion for theatre like myself.”

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annualREPORT

CONCLUSION

CONCLUSION

KATEE, 18, MIDLOTHIAN

F

OR the last five years, Scottish Youth Theatre has experienced challenging times. However, through determination and hard work, the company has managed to sustain itself throughout this difficult period. For over 37 years, Scottish Youth Theatre has been giving children and young people in Scotland a wide variety of opportunities to participate in high quality theatre arts activities. The company is proud of the activities it delivers all around Scotland all year round serving not only young participants but also their teachers, leaders and tutors.

Scottish Youth Theatre has trained or employed many of Scotland’s leading professionals in theatre, film, television and radio. However, Scottish Youth Theatre is not just about producing media stars and practitioners. It has also made contact with and given a voice to tens of thousands of participants who have gone on to become well

rounded cultured citizens of Scotland and who work in all types of vocations and professions.

Everything the youth theatre achieves in any one year is directly related to giving young people in Scotland the opportunity to access youth theatre arts of the highest quality. Young people are at the centre of everything Scottish Youth Theatre does. It is our belief that every young person in Scotland has a great deal to offer and it is our job to give them the chance to shine in their own special way through the youth theatre process.

The annual programme of work and the building allow Scottish Youth Theatre to do just that – shine!

Patron Emma SYT participants, 2013 Caption in hereThompson for image with above

Thank you to all of our staff, Board members, patrons, partners, participants, their families and the many friends of the company for your enthusiasm and continued support.

The youth theatre could not continue to grow and develop with out their commitment and dedication. Here’s to many more years of quality

Fiona Hyslop, Cabinet Secretary for Culture and External Affairs with the cast and crew of Mary Queen of Scots Got Her Head Chopped Off, 2013

Mary McCluskey Artistic Director & Chief Executive

Rail Respect , Cumbernauld High School, 2014 Caption in here for image above

Theatre Toolbox, 2013