Over the year I have seen a complete transformation in [NEET young people referred to LYT]. I can proudly say they are in education due to LYT’s positive involvement with them.”
We use theatre as a mechanism for change in the lives of the young people we work with. All our projects build life skills, develop communication and literacy skills and support gifted and talented young people. We work with a wide range of partners to ensure our projects reach those most in need of our services.
We work with partners in youth social/health services and voluntary organisations to help young people who could benefit from our services access our projects.
EXPLORE CREATIVITY WITH LYT:
We work with Lewisham based groups to provide drama/backstage workshops/projects.
- One-off workshop sessions or meetings with young people in your setting or at our Theatre venue
- Dedicated places on our programmes for referrals of young people most in need
- Regular updates on programme recruitment to help identify potential participants.
- Posters and flyers to share with young people, promoting our activities and events.
To book a workshop session or to discuss our other activities, please contact Maz at outreach@lewishamyouththeatre.com OR call 020 8318 2508.
Recent partners of LYT:
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RECENT OUTREACH PROJECTS:
LYT works alongside key partners to deliver workshops in schools and community groups as well curating bespoke Outreach Projects.
“ Arts and Poetry”
During the Easter holidays, LYT collaborated with Apples and Snakes on a unique cross-arts and poetry program centered around the theme of identity. These exciting workshops were designed to engage participants in a variety of creative expressions, allowing them to explore and reflect on their personal and cultural identities through different artistic mediums. The program combined poetry, drama, storytelling, and visual art, fostering a dynamic and inclusive environment for all involved.
Throughout the program, participants not only honed their skills in poetry and performance but also learned to connect with others, share their stories, and celebrate the richness of diverse identities. The project aimed to nurture creativity, build confidence, and encourage participants to think deeply about who they are and how they express themselves within the world.
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“Feeling Creative”
In 2024, LYT partnered with CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) to foster a unique collaboration that empowered creative teenagers from across the Borough of Lewisham. This innovative program brought together young people from diverse backgrounds, providing a safe and inspiring space to explore their artistic potential.
Meeting weekly, participants engaged in a variety of stimulating activities and games designed to build trust, enhance self-expression, and strengthen teamwork. Under the guidance of experienced facilitators, they explored themes relevant to their lives, experimenting with different creative forms such as storytelling, movement, devising and improvisation.
Over time, these sessions evolved into the foundation of an original, devised play. The process encouraged participants to contribute their ideas, collaborate on shaping the narrative, and find their voices both individually and collectively. By the program’s conclusion, the group had not only created a compelling piece of theatre but also developed skills in confidence, resilience, and creative problem-solving that would benefit them far beyond the stage.
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HOW TO REFER PARTICIPANTS
What We Offer: We provide additional support to children and young people in need who are referred to our projects. Support includes:
- one-to-one meetings with participants and parents/carers/workers to help young people access our activities,
- ongoing individualised support throughout the project
- bursaries for additional theatre trips/opportunities.
Referral Criteria: We accept referrals of children and young people aged 8-25 who are face a significant disadvanatge and could benefit from additional support to engage in our programmes.
In order to take part, young people must:
- Want to engage in drama or technical theatre sessions
- Live or learn in Lewisham
- Attend no other after school drama group
- Be able to work in a group without one-to-one support
- Priority is given to those in state/free schools, academies or home schooling
How to Refer: If you work with a Lewisham young person who could benefit from LYT’s programmes, please complete a Referral Form and our Outreach Producer will contact you.
LYT’s Outreach activities are currently supported by the Henry Smith Charity, People’s Postcode Community Trust, Assura Community Fund and Little Lives UK.