News Story
Last week, we had the joy of hosting eight youth theatre groups, including a company of members of our very own Chichester Festival Youth Theatre, to perform in the Minerva Theatre as part of NT Connections. Read on to hear from the company, their parents, and the director about participating in this special project.
Connections is the National Theatre’s annual, nationwide youth theatre festival. We were one of 33 partner theatres across the UK taking part. Every year, Connections commissions new plays for young people to perform, bringing together some of the UK’s most exciting writers. The Connections 2025 programme included ten new plays, developed with input from young people. Our CFYT company performed No Regrets by Gary McNair.
They formed an inclusive company, bringing together participants from CFYT groups in Chichester, Worthing, Horsham, and Portsmouth, with and without additional needs. They met over February half term for a concentrated rehearsal period, dedicating their time and energy to bringing the play to life.
Hannah Hogg, our Senior Youth and Outreach Manager, directed the piece: 'The company’s hard work and dedication culminated in a performance in the Minerva Theatre, showcasing not only their talent and passion but also highlighting the importance of inclusivity and collaboration in the arts. Through their shared love of theatre, the company formed lasting bonds and created a performance that they were all really proud of.'
You get to learn how to act, play different characters and feel brave on stage! But it's also a place to make friends, share ideas and see the world in new ways through stories.
CFYT participant and Connections company member
12 of the performers were young people with additional needs, who took to the stage with confidence and creativity, supported by their peers. The production was further enhanced by five members from our Technical Youth Theatre group, who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make sure the performance went smoothly.
It’s been really special to see all of our ideas come to life throughout the process.
CFYT participant and Connections company member
There is a lack of opportunities for young people with learning disabilities to collaborate, be part of projects with other mainstream young people. To be equal partners in something like this makes them feel valued.
Parent of Connections company member
Everyone is so kind and we just have so much fun together. It’s been so lovely to get to know everyone and it’s so nice that we bond over both our similarities and our differences.
CFYT participant and Connections company member
A huge thank you to everyone who generously supports CFYT, including: Yvonne and John Dean, Jerome and Elizabeth O’Hea, Liz Juniper, Greg Slay, The Patricia Routledge Foundation, the Wickens Family Foundation and those who wish to remain anonymous.
