Tullamore branch of Offaly Youth Theatre to resume

The Tullamore chapter of Offaly Youth Theatre is to resume on Saturday, February 1. The chapter that will meet at 1pm in the Charleville Centre will be facilitated by Dara Carolan, who is temporarily covering for Angela Ryan of Jasango Theatre.

The Tullamore branch of Offaly Youth Theatre is one of three around the county. Groups in Tullamore, Edenderry and Birr come together for an annual showcase at Easter, which will take place in Birr Theatre and Arts Centre on Sunday, April 13. The not for profit organisation is funded by Offaly County Council arts office, the youth development office of Laois/Offaly ETC and participant fees.

“I am really looking forward to working with young people from Tullamore on an exciting exploration of their ideas which we can work towards for stage or screen,” Dara said this week, adding that the group is for “any young person who feels they have something to say”.

Chairperson Molloy Buckley said meanwhile she believes in the ability of theatre of empower the voice of young people. “We already can see the huge impact it is having on our young theatre makers of the future,” she said.

Offaly Youth Theatre is open to all aged 14 to 19 years of age. It’s affiliated with the National Association of Youth Drama and all of its tutors are Garda vetted, follow a strict child protection policy and are professional actors or directors.

Anyone interested in the initiative can call or text Janine on 089 4590138 or email offalyyouththeatre@gmail.com. New members are welcome to come to one session on a trial basis, and thereafter term fees are €5 per session.