‘Seeing the plays made me more excited about theatre, it made me want to go see more shows and to experiment in the non-acting elements of theatre when I returned to my own youth theatre.’  Young Critic 2013

[The Young Critics] has improved my ability to watch theatre in a critical manner and my ability to write reviews. I met lovely people and made lots of new friends.’  Young Critic 2013

 What is The Young Critics Programme?

The Young Critics Programme is now in its incredible eleventh year. One of NAYD’s most popular programmes, it is open to youth theatre members who are interested in watching theatre, discovering how and why theatre is made, and learning how to critically discuss, analyse, and review theatre.

Along the way they will see some incredible shows, make new friends and learn about the art of theatre criticism.

This is a very exciting programme and one where young people are given an opportunity to see quality productions, while developing their critical skills in a safe and encouraging atmosphere. This will allow them to develop their own critical voice and express their views in a confidant and knowledgeable way.

There are only sixteen places available to youth theatre members from affiliated youth theatres around Ireland. If you are in any way interested, we would encourage you to apply.

The Young Critics will meet in Dublin from Friday April 25^th to Sunday 27^th for the first time and again in October. Over the two weekends the Young Critics will attend at least four theatre productions, and participate in workshops and discussions with leading international theatre critic and academic, Dr Karen Fricker and Alan King, NAYD Youth Theatre Officer.

The group meet again in October to see further productions, take part in more workshops and participate in a public panel discussion. In between the two residential weekends, the Young Critics will be encouraged and supported to go and see other local productions, write some reviews and contribute to the Young Critics blog.

 

 

How do I apply to take part in Young Critics?

Participation in the programme is free: accommodation, food, theatre tickets and travel costs are covered by NAYD.

It is open to NAYD affiliated youth theatre members who will be aged 16 or over on April 1^st 2014.

To be a Young Critic you must be fully available for both weekends.

NAYD will have welfare leaders in place all weekend to ensure the wellbeing and safety of all participants.

If you are interested in the programme, please fill out the application and consent forms fully and return to:

 by Monday April 7^th 2014.

 

Watch some former Young Critics Talk about the Young Critics Programme.