TYNEDALE’s budding performers have been accepted to join a prestigious national theatre scheme, which aims to bring young creatives together.

Hexham’s Queen’s Hall Youth Theatre group ‘Creatives’, comprising of performers age 14-19, have been chosen to be part of the National Theatre Connections scheme, which sees more than 300 youth theatre companies and over 6,000 young people take part every year.

Ten new plays scripted by professional play writers are commissioned by National Theatre in London for the theatre-makers of tomorrow to perform.

QHA’s Youth Theatre have landed the play Salt, a coming-of-age story about the struggles of Millennial life with themes of choices, hope and generational differences at its core.

Writer Dawn King was inspired by her conversations with young people – and the minefield of issues which they currently face growing up in the world.

Set in the near future, the play centres around a group of young people who have joined a new government initiative, where they are offered the opportunity to work abroad, in hope that they can secure a future career in a competitive job market.

Once on board the transport ship however, the promises of the glossy advert seems a far cry from the future which lies ahead.

With a cast of 12 actors, ‘Creatives’ will be working under youth director Sue Betts, who was the catalyst behind the group’s involvement with the scheme.

“It’s important for theatre groups like ours, which are based in an rural area, have the chance to make connections with the wider theatre community, because it could help form new friendships, creative partnerships and vital professional opportunities,” she said.

As part of the scheme, the theatre group will put on two performances of Salt on home-soil at the Queen’s Hall, and then travel to the Northern Stage in Newcastle to showcase their talents.

“Not just for the actors, but for all the tech, sound and set workers backstage, having the opportunity to work at two unique theatres is great experience,” said Sue.

“Schemes such as these help to nurture the next generation of creatives, which is exciting.”

Taking on Salt, has also been an opportunity for young performers to home their dramatic skills, and challenge themselves in new ways, such as working on characterisation, creative soundscapes and theatrical movement.

“There are no big or small parts in the group,” said Sue. “We are all one ensemble working together, and supporting each other.

“It’s been moving to see how much individuals can grow in confidence through the support of there fellow team mates, I’ve seen young people tackle things which they would never have been outgoing enough to take on when they first joined.

“It is as much about friendship as it is about nursing talent.”

Salt will run on March 4 and 5 at the Queen’s Hall, Hexham at 7.30pm. Tickets are online at www.queenshall.co.uk