The Youth Group Education Program invites participants aged 11-17 to explore the many aspects of theatre development and performance at Oshawa Little Theatre.  

This program gives participants the opportunity to develop a variety of skills by engaging in drama and musical theatre workshops run by experienced professionals.  Participants are guided to develop confidence in the performing arts, such as acting, singing, and dancing.  

Participants will also be exposed to technical and ‘behind the scenes’ elements which are vital to the success of any performance in theatre.  These workshop areas might include: costumes, hair and makeup, prop creation, set build and design, lighting and sound operation, and stage management.

The Youth Group Education Program runs from September to May.  For the first few months, students will participate in a variety of professional workshops each Saturday from 9am – 12pm.  Then, they will demonstrate their experiences in a Showcase of the Arts for their families in December.  There will be auditions to determine specific roles for the Full Stage Production culminating with a 2 week run in the Spring.  All Performance Youth Group Education participants will be cast in the production. The program has strict attendance policies for the production rehearsal period.  You must be able to commit to the rehearsal schedule with no more than three approved absences and no absences from after March Break  onward, unless special permission is granted.

The significant commitment by both the youth and parents to the Youth Group results in vibrant and rewarding theatre experiences.  A volunteer commitment from all families is essential for the production in order to fulfill all of our backstage needs. Each family is required to contribute a minimum of 15 volunteer hours leading up to the show and/or during the run of the show.  Parent and family members will be able to volunteer in all areas of the theatre: marketing, costumes, set decoration, set construction, backstage, props, lighting and sound, and hair and makeup. Training will be provided: no experience necessary!