The National Youth Theatre (NYT) is New Zealand’s premier musical theatre training programme for young people aged 7-21, with many of our very own North Shore kids starring in its wonderful productions and attending its holiday programmes. Channel Mag's Liz Cannon caught up with two local lads who've had a wealth of experience at NYT, and who share their insights for those wanting to get involved.
Channel Mag: Tell us about your involvement with NYT.
Seamus Ford: I first got involved with NYT back in 2007, when I saw their production of Alice in Wonderland. As a result of seeing that amazing show, I signed up for one of the NYT holiday programmes. After a few years of performing in the NYT shows, I got the chance to join the direction and teaching team. I haven't looked back since!
Conor Sheridan: I have been a part of NYT for the past nine years and I am now participating in my fifteenth production! I've also been part of the Triple Threat classes which have helped me tremendously.
What's been a highlight for you?
SF: A highlight was the last time I was a cast member when I got the chance to play Pharaoh in our 2012 production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. It was such a fun role in such a colourful, vibrant production, and I’m really enjoying watching it come to life for our show week at the Aotea Centre in June 2024 with this new cast.
CS: The highlight for me in each and every show I've been involved in, is the final weeks of the process, getting to spend more time on the show, seeing the final product coming together, and then performing it all in a fully professional theatre.
What's coming up next for you?
SF: A busy time! We have a jam-packed April school holiday coming up when we run our usual AllStars musical theatre holiday programme at the Rose Centre in Belmont. We are also running a new programme where we are putting together a whole musical in a week, bringing the New Zealand premiere of Diary of a Wimpy Kid to the Dorothy Winstone Centre stage. After the holidays we will be continuing our weekly classes at the Rose Centre, while we keep prepping for Joseph at the Aotea Centre in June.
CS: I am currently pursuing my bachelor's degree in engineering, but I plan to continue to perform in any way I can so I never lose the great memories I’ve made.
What advice would you give to anyone wanting to get involved?
SF: The best thing anyone who wants to get involved can do is to give it a go! Whether it’s joining a group at school or signing up for one of our many programmes, the best thing you can do is to put yourself out there and try it! If you throw yourself into it with an open mind you’ll be amazed at what you find in yourself.
CS: My best advice for anyone who wants to join NYT or pursue theatre is to give it your all. The most fun you can have is the fun that you find in it!
To find out more about the National Youth Theatre and all the programmes it offers please visit nyt.nz or email info@nyt.nz
