Bristol Old Vic Young Company Commemorates 30th Anniversary

The Bristol Old Vic Young Company, recognized as one of the most prominent youth theatre organizations, is commemorating its 30th anniversary. Established in 1994, its mission was to offer children opportunities to engage with drama. Notable former members include Bristol comedian Jayde Adams, alongside actors Hannah Murray, Joe Sims, and April Pearson. Approximately 21,000 individuals participated in the company’s activities during the previous year. The organization’s leadership asserts that “everyone should get an opportunity” to investigate a career path in theatre. Directors Heather Williams and Sally Cookson were responsible for establishing the company. Typically, it stages a minimum of two productions each year, and numerous former participants advance to professional positions within the theatre industry. According to Engagement Director Lucy Hunt, over 300 young individuals engage in the company’s programs every week. She stated that the company extends its reach to “anywhere where we know there are kids,” encompassing locations such as schools and youth clubs, with the aim of attracting the maximum number of prospective participants. The initiative has served as a launchpad for the careers of actors within the city. Former participant Joseph Langdon attributes the company with providing him “lots of opportunities” during the initial stages of his career. He remarked, “I can’t imagine where my life would be without meeting BOV Young Company”. Langdon expressed his desire for aspiring actors from varied backgrounds to contemplate a career in performance. He affirmed that there is “no failure in theatre” and that young individuals have the chance to “be free.”