The Western Australian Youth Theatre Company (WAYTCO) was founded in 1990 to develop and present drama and theatre with, by and for young Western Australians in collaboration with a dedicated team of theatre arts professionals. A voluntary board of management, comprising 60 per cent youth members and 40 per cent theatre professionals determines the focus of the company, and a part-time administrator works from its headquarters at the King Street Arts Centre in Perth. The Artistic Director of the company is Phil Thomson.

The WAYTCO aims to provide a bridge between the world of theatre in the community and industry and drama in schools, and its productions target a large and diverse audience, including students, young people, the corporate sector, arts and special interest groups and the general public. Around 200 members, aged 15 to 25-years, participate in the annual programme and information on WAYTCo performance projects held at schools and public venues reaches more than 4000 young Western Australians each year.

Over the past 13 years the company has established a reputation for producing and presenting high quality youth theatre, and its public performances consistently attract a large and loyal audience.

Message from the Artistic Director

In 2009 we will begin another exciting year with The Life of Galileo, a brilliant large-cast play of ideas from the maestro of epic theatre Bertolt Brecht.  It reflects the struggle between religious power and state control, and eerily predates the current clash between believers of intelligent design and evolution.  In a WAYTCo first it will be directed by one of our senior members, Garreth Bradshaw, as he begins his professional career.

After the fun we have had devising and performing Blood in ‘08 I am excited about the second play of our trilogy of new works (Blood, Sweat and Tears).  Sweat will celebrate work, sport and tenacity (via fear and embarrassment). We need writers, comedians, musicians, dancers, designers and athletes as well as actors.  Again a senior member will be at the helm, with Patrick Downes directing.  The first phase of creation begins in January, get involved early! 

For ‘09 we have also developed a partnership with the Perth Theatre Company that will allow special access to their shows and artists for our members.  Add this to our Shakespeare project, the Class Clowns national stand-up comedy event and our regular skills workshops and this becomes a year of empowerment and opportunity for our members. We offer great professional support – come and join us.

Phil Thomson
Artistic Director

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