Next year will be BYMT's 20th anniversary – over the last 20 years they have commissioned 146 incredible and innovative pieces of music theatre, all created by top theatre professionals in collaboration with a talented young company. West End director Steven Dexter says: ‘BYMT not only offers a totally unique experience for young people in being part of the creation of a new piece of music theatre, but for the creatives as well. We as writers get to have our new work rehearsed and performed fully staged in front of an audience. I don't know any other organisation that enables this for creatives in the UK and I am so grateful for that experience.’
But the joy and experience are not only for the creative team – the main priorities for BYMT are the young people. After successfully passing the auditions, young people will be invited to join one of BYMT's exciting music theatre productions over Easter or during the summer. It will be living and breathing theatre 24/7 for two to three weeks, working with West End professionals to build a full-scale music show from the ground up, perform in the UK's most prestigious venues, and get a Grade 8 qualification from Trinity College London.
‘It is not only the joy of being in music theatre, but also meeting other people and making friends, and every single person here is really nice’ - Christopher, ‘Why the Whales Came’
Christopher was one of 1,000 young people who auditioned for BYMT that year. Each year hundreds of young performers have a chance to embark on one of BYMT's projects and get a unique experience in training with West End professionals and starring in a full-scale piece of new music theatre.
Anyone aged 11–21 can book a slot in BYMT's National Auditions, which are now on sale, and be offered a place in a brand-new music theatre piece performed at the most prestigious venues across the UK. No previous experience is needed – BYMT is looking for enthusiasm, determination, integrity, energy, authenticity, and a willingness to learn.
‘I would 110 per cent recommend other people to audition for BYMT. I literally had the best time ever and it's so professional; you learn so much. Whether you want to go into the performing arts industry or not, you benefit so much from the personal development and life skills learnt. Go for it!’ says Olivia, cast of The Night the War Ended.
Throughout January and February 2023, BYMT is holding National Auditions 2022 for the new exciting season of music theatre. If you know anyone who would benefit from this experience, their journey starts here: britishyouthmusictheatre.org/auditions
