artsdepot Youth Theatre is a welcoming weekly drama group for young people aged 13 – 17, led by professional theatre maker and actor Laura Atherton.
These lively, supportive sessions are designed to help young people grow in confidence, develop performance skills and experience the excitement of creating theatre as part of an ensemble.
Whether your young person is completely new to drama or already passionate about performing, this is a space where they can challenge themselves, build friendships and discover their creative voice.
What to Expect
Each week, participants will:
- Explore exciting new scripts and contemporary writing
- Develop ensemble and devising skills
- Build performance technique and stage confidence
- Collaborate creatively in a supportive company environment
- Work with an experienced professional theatre director and assistant director
Sessions are playful, inclusive and structured to support both beginners and those studying GCSE Drama.
Special Event: Romeo and Juliet Trip
As part of the Autumn term, the class on Tue 13 Oct will include a special group trip to see Romeo and Juliet at artsdepot. This visit will be supervised by Laura Atherton, offering young people the chance to experience professional theatre together as a company. Timings for this date will be 5pm – 9.30pm, with no additional cost.
Supporting Progress & Future Pathways
artsdepot Youth Theatre offers valuable experience for:
- GCSE Drama and devised theatre work
- Building confidence and communication skills
- Strengthening CVs, college and UCAS applications
- Developing teamwork and leadership skills
National Theatre Connections 2027
Company members will work towards performing as part of the National Theatre Connections Festival 2027, with the opportunity to be selected to perform at the Summer Festival at the National Theatre – an exciting platform for young performers across the UK.
Who It’s For
Young people aged 13 – 17 who are:
- Curious about acting or theatre‑making
- Interested in devising and new writing
- Looking to build confidence
- Keen to meet like‑minded peers
- Ready to be part of a creative ensemble
Join us this Autumn and be part of a youth company where ideas are valued, creativity is encouraged, and young people are supported to thrive.
Meet the tutor
Laura Atherton
Laura Atherton
Laura Atherton is a North London based theatre maker. A trained actor, script writer and with experience in directing Laura has a wide ranging theatre skillset.
She’s a long time collaborator with experimental theatre company imitating the dog, a company that specialises in making work that blends digital and live theatre. She has toured as an actor in their shows both nationally and internationally, to countries including Brazil, Hong Kong, Indonesia and Italy. Shows include Macbeth, A Farewell to Arms and Night of the Living Dead – Remix and she also worked in the development of and on stage for ‘Cinema Inferno’ at Paris Haute Couture Fashion week.
Laura specialises in contemporary theatre and is experienced in a wide range of styles including physical theatre, digital theatre, devising, mask work and new writing. Her directing style is explorative, engaging and enthusiastic. The sessions for the Young Company will offer members a chance to learn about lots of theatre styles in a supportive environment, develop their theatre making skills, increase their confidence as a performer and to have fun!
