We caught up with a Torch Youth Theatre member, actor Ria and Assistant Director of Torch Youth, Mel. Both are involved with Ravers – Torch Youth Theatre’s Spring Production that will feature on the Torch Theatre stage from Thursday 6 March until Saturday 8 March.

Ria: “Going to the Torch Youth Theatre is my favourite part of the week. It is funny, welcoming, and a little space away from the world which invites you to let go and be free. I didn’t know anyone going in, but each night I come out laughing. I show up every week not knowing exactly what will happen but always unafraid because I know I’ll have a great, chaotic time. We play drama games that can either be verbal (and very loud) or we focus on movement. The games are varied and engaging and you don’t realise what they’ve taught you until you’re reading a script and speaking with a sudden confidence.

I’ve learned a lot from the Torch, the experiences I have gained are unlike anything a classroom can teach. Every week allows us to step into whatever crazy role we want to play. You are always reacting to each other in the big scenes and the plays are chosen to give each person their time to shine through.

Currently we are working on Ravers the teen geek revolution that is embarrassingly funny and a joy to perform. The additional opportunity to go to Aberystwyth Arts Centre to perform is very cool. We connect with other drama groups performing completely new plays while being given the chance to act in front of a crowd of like-minded people on a huge stage where you feel on top of the world.

If you are someone who’d like to demolish any suffocating, anxiety-inducing feelings from school, work, home or anything, or someone who just wants an energetic, unexpected and fulfilling evening once a week, then join the Torch Youth Theatre. It has only made me happier.”

Mel: “Shwmae, Melanie ydw i! I’m the assistant director for Torch Youth Theatre’s upcoming spring show, Ravers. Here’s a little glimpse into my experience so far and what to expect when you come to watch our show! 

Working on Ravers has been an insightful and wonderful experience in so many ways; an opportunity to work in collaboration with the National Theatre and the chance to learn from our director Tim, who challenges and drives my skills as a theatre maker. At the heart of it all, however, sit the young adults we work with each week. It has been such a joy to hear them dissect and discuss their teenage experiences, in contrast to my own, and see how they channel those life events through their characters. Each week, I get to witness them shape and grow into more nuanced, perceptive and intuitive actors.

I implore everyone to watch Ravers, not only to reminisce on their own teenage adventures as I do each week but to also gain a keen eye into the lives of teenagers in today’s society. We can catch a glimpse into the trials, tribulations and the joys they face day in, day out. At the end of it, perhaps we will understand our future generation more resolutely but at the very least you will have witnessed a fabulous piece of theatre with homegrown talent right at the centre.”

Ravers – runs from Thursday 6 March until Saturday 8 March. Tickets can be purchased online here or at our box office.

You can also support our Youth Theatre’s work by making a one-off donation or becoming a member. Information on these as well as other ways to get involved can be found here.