The programme
Discover every side of theatre
Kenton Youth gives young people the opportunity to learn, create and grow in a working professional theatre, developing confidence and creative skills both on stage and behind the scenes.
Weekly sessions
Kenton Youth runs on Mondays across three terms of 10 weeks.
Juniors
Years 5 and 6
5pm to 6pm
Seniors
Years 7 to 11
6.15pm to 7.30pm
Until 7.45pm for participants taking Bronze Arts Award.
What young people learn
Kenton Youth introduces young people to the full breadth of theatre. Through weekly sessions with our talented Kenton Youth Team and workshops with industry professionals, they explore a wide range of performance styles, from acting and musical theatre to physical theatre and comedy. They also discover the many roles that bring a production to life, including design, costume, make-up, stage management, lighting and sound.
It is a broad programme that inspires creativity and confidence and helps every young person find where their own interests and talents lie, whether on stage or behind the scenes.
Across the year
Autumn:
In the Autumn Term, we have specialist workshops with industry professionals. This year, our workshops include stage combat, special effects make-up, pantomime, and dance. Young people will also work towards some exciting performances for the public, and at the end of the term, Kenton Youth will enjoy a trip to see the pantomime at The Kenton.
Spring:
In the spring term, we will welcome more workshops from industry professionals, as we do every term. Kenton Youth will create their own piece for the Henley Youth Festival, held at The Kenton in March. Every young person will contribute in a way that suits them, whether performing at the festival, or taking on a creative role behind the scenes.
Summer:
This Summer, every young person will have headshots taken by a profession photographer. There will also be a visit to a recording studio, where some children will record a song, and others will learn more about the technology. The year ends with our Summer Showcase at The Kenton, a celebration for family and friends of the skills our young people have learnt and the work they have created.
Beyond the weekly sessions
Being part of Kenton Youth means being part of a working theatre, which comes with so many exciting opportunities for the young people.
At Kenton Youth, young people will get the opportunity to perform in events such as Kenton Carols and the Henley Youth Festival, enjoy a performance of the Kenton’s annual Pantomime, and can also work towards an Arts Award alongside the programme.
Supporting young people’s development
Kenton Youth welcomes different backgrounds and experience levels. Participants can discover their interests, develop practical skills and grow in confidence within a supportive environment.
No auditions. No previous experience needed.
Thank you to our Kenton Youth supporters
Kenton Youth is made possible with the generous support of South Oxfordshire District Council and Thamesfield Youth Association.
Their support helps us provide high-quality theatre education for local young people, developing confidence, creativity and essential life skills.
Funding from South Oxfordshire District Council also supports eight fully funded bursary places, helping ensure that financial circumstances are not a barrier to taking part.
Together, we are creating opportunities for the next generation, both on and off the stage.
Meet the team
Meet the people behind Kenton Youth. Our dedicated team brings a wealth of theatre experience, creativity and enthusiasm, helping young people develop their skills and confidence in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Ready to join?
Visit Join Kenton Youth for fees, term dates, bursaries and registration.