The youth theatre at Tewkesbury’s Roses Theatre is gearing up for an exciting new season which coincides with the popular and beloved venue’s fiftieth year.

The Roses Young Creatives group meets weekly on the Roses’ famous stage. It is North Gloucestershire’s only youth theatre that meets weekly on a professional stage.

Across the year, the Roses offers its young actors offer specific sessions designed especially for them - and delivered by industry professionals from across the UK. In order to develop the young people’s stage skills, the youth group offers numerous performance opportunities across the year, including as part of the chorus in its annual pantomimes, and at regular showcase events.

The youth theatre season culminates every year in a spectacular summer musical. Last year, Roses Young Creatives performed a production of Wizard of Oz. Other recent summer shows have included Matilda and We Will Rock You.

Emma, who has been a Roses Young Creative since 2022, said: “I get to perform regularly, and I’ve had all sorts of roles—from ensemble parts to named characters, goodies and even villains. Some of the roles have really pushed me, but I’ve always had so much support, which has made the whole experience fun and exciting!”

The theatre’s new season begins in September, and new members are always welcome. “We’d love to see new faces at Roses Young Creatives this year,” says Derek Bond, the Roses’ incoming Director.

“We have a fantastic resource here in our youth theatre,” he adds. “Sixty young people are returning to us from last year, too, which speaks volumes about the quality of the programme and how much our young actors enjoy and value the opportunities it offers. Come and join us!”

Emma agrees: “RYC has honestly shaped who I am—I wouldn’t be anywhere near as confident without it. I love coming every week, being with my friends, and learning something new in such a welcoming environment.”

Roses Young Creatives meets every week at the theatre, which this year celebrates its fiftieth birthday. Famous faces to have recently stood on its stage include Bill Bailey, Russell Kane and Chris McCausland - and the next generation of Roses stars will be born when the youth theatre begins its new season in September.

Budding actors are streamed into varying age groups, from Beginners in Years 1 & 2 to Company players in Year 10+. In 2025-26, the Seniors group (Years 7-9) will be expanding to Mondays as well as Tuesdays. Pre-school and reception children will also have their chance as part of the RYC Minis group, a Saturday session for the youngest thespians.

“It’s such a rewarding group for everyone involved,” explains Bond. “If you’re a budding actor, technician, writer or just someone interested in the theatre … get in touch! Theatre teaches us all how to co-operate, how to solve problems, how to speak in public. It grows our confidence. And these essential skills will stay with you for life.”