Scotland's youth theatre is to launch a new National Ensemble.
Scottish Youth Theatre (SYT), which is marking its 40th birthday, has opened registration for the ensemble, and is looking for 16 to 25 year olds who live, work, study or have family in Scotland to a series of open auditions.
Auditions will be held nationwide in Stornoway, Inverness, Oban, Dumfries, Stranraer, Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Glasgow.
Once recruited, the Ensemble will undertake development sessions across Scotland working with professional theatre-makers.
Mary McCluskey, artistic director of SYT, said: "The National Ensemble is something we have wanted to do for quite some time.
"It is an example of our commitment to giving talented young people the opportunity to challenge and develop their theatre skills.
"They will also have the opportunity to gain a formal qualification which will aid them in accessing further education and industry work.
"We will ensure participants work at the highest level, collaborating with some of the most influential practitioners and performers working in Scottish theatre today."
Auditions will take place in January and February.
Those interested are encouraged to visit Scottish Youth Theatre’s website for more details.
The actress Kate Dickie, formerly of SYT, said: "I think this is a great idea.
"Before joining SYT, I never thought I could even consider an acting career.
"However my experiences at Scottish Youth Theatre of working with professional writers, directors and back stage crew improved my ability as a performer and inspired me to turn my passion into a career.
I am delighted to encourage all aspiring young performers to join Scottish Youth Theatre National Ensemble. ¨
Jacky Hardacre, chief executive, said: "Since joining SYT in March 2016 I have been committed to establishing this National Ensemble as an opportunity for young people to develop and showcase their abilities, not just as performers but as theatre-makers in their own right.
"We are working hard to make this opportunity open to all young performers regardless of their background or home location. I can’t wait to see their creativity and talent and in action."
On 6 December 2016, Scottish Youth Theatre celebrates its 40th birthday.
Past alumni include Gerard Butler, KT Tunstall, Karen Gillan, Kate Dickie, Laura Fraser, Blythe Duff and Colin McCreadie, Douglas Henshall, Siobhan Redmond and Julie Wilson Nimmo among many others.
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