The Magic of Youth Theatre

Behind the Scenes: Creating a Youth Theatre Production By Yvonne Coughlan

Creating a youth theatre production is an exciting and dynamic process that brings together creativity, collaboration, and a shared vision. From the moment we begin the journey, the aim is to craft an experience where young people not only develop their theatrical skills but also discover new aspects of themselves. This is something I have always been passionate about, having witnessed time and time again the transformative power of theatre, especially for young people.

For example, during my time teaching drama to teens in Wiesbaden, Germany, as part of their school’s English curriculum, I saw how a group of skeptical teenagers, who initially thought theatre wasn’t for them, slowly but surely came out of their shells. Many of them begrudgingly agreed to help with behind-the-scenes work, but over time, they found themselves stepping onto the stage. One of my fondest memories was the feedback I received from parents, especially from one mother whose daughter had been struggling socially since the pandemic. For the first time, this young girl came home happy, telling her parents about the friends she was making and the joy she felt in being part of the production. Another parent expressed amazement at how their son, who had never shown much interest in anything before, became an engaged team player and eagerly participated in the performance. Moments like these remind me of the profound impact that theatre can have on young people, helping them build confidence, form connections, and discover new passions.

The process starts with choosing a theme that resonates with the group, something that sparks imagination and conversation. This theme sets the stage for everything that follows. In the early stages, we focus on building trust, encouraging the young performers to express themselves freely in a supportive and safe environment. Through improvisation, and exploration, the production begins to take shape.

The next step is collaboration. Every member, whether they’re acting, designing costumes, or creating the set, plays a vital role. The real magic happens when the cast and crew come together, each piece of the puzzle falling into place. As a director, I facilitate the process by guiding the group, ensuring that their ideas are heard and that the final production reflects their hard work and creativity.

One of the most rewarding aspects is watching the performers grow, both on and off stage. Youth theatre provides a space for personal development, teaching young people valuable life skills such as teamwork, resilience, and confidence. The moment they take their final bow, it must be clear that the journey has been just as important as the show itself.

Creating a youth theatre production is a shared adventure, one that leaves lasting memories and valuable lessons for everyone involved. These experiences, like the one in Wiesbaden, serve as constant reminders of the importance of what we do and the incredible power of the arts in shaping young lives.

Stay tuned for more insights into the world of youth theatre and the creative magic that makes it all possible! Check out Kinsale Youth Theatre Project.