The Years 4–6 Ensemble is an audition-based program for young people who are ready to explore theatre more deeply. Over two terms, the ensemble works with a professional theatre-maker to experiment, play, test ideas, and collaboratively create a brand-new piece of theatre. It’s the perfect next step for young artists who want to stretch their imagination and discover what’s possible when a group commits to making something together.
These semester-long programs bring together dedicated young artists to create an original new work, guided by leading professional theatre-makers.
Across two terms, Young Artists will:
- Dive deeper into performance and theatre-making practice.
- Learn how new work is generated — from ideas and research through to rehearsal and sharing, or how to approach existing work in a new and innovative way.
- Collaborate with a committed ensemble.
- Present a new performance to family and community
| WHO | Years 4-6 |
| DATES | Terms 2-3 |
| LOCATION | Gorman Arts Centre B Block Studio Batman Street Braddon |
| COST | $1,100 Member Price $1,200 Non-member Price Membership Fee: $25 |
| ENROLMENTS | By Audition |
What You Can Expect
- Weekly rehearsals that build core performance skills in acting, movement, voice and ensemble play
- Creative investigations that encourage curiosity, experimentation and bold ideas
- A guided devising process where young artists generate material and shape the work
- Supportive auditioned ensemble committed to working together over a longer creative journey
- Additional rehearsals to allow for reflection, refinement and a calm, sustainable process
- A sharing of the ensemble’s work with family and community at the end of the semester
Participants should wear comfortable clothing they can move in and bring a water bottle. Any additional materials required for specific activities will be communicated in advance.
Program Outcomes
- Develop confidence in generating and expressing original ideas
- Strengthen skills in performance, movement, improvisation and storytelling
- Learn how new theatre is made — from exploration to creation to sharing
- Build collaboration, communication and problem-solving skills
- Understand the responsibilities and joys of working within a committed ensemble
- Experience the pride of shaping a new work from scratch
Dates for your Calendar
Coming Soon!
Culture and Commitment
This model reflects Canberra Youth Theatre’s wider commitment to:
- Providing pathways into professional practice
- Removing barriers to participation
- Offering real-world creative experiences
- Championing diverse voices
- Supporting emerging artists as future cultural leaders
We collaborate with artists, schools, and community organisations to unlock access and resource young people who may otherwise struggle to find a creative pathway.
The Culture We Build Together
Participating at Canberra Youth Theatre means being part of a professional artistic community. We ask young artists to bring:
- Commitment to the work, the process, and fellow collaborators
- Courage to take creative risks and explore new approaches
- Respect for diverse perspectives, artistic choices, and shared rehearsal space
- Curiosity approaching each project as an opportunity to grow
- Professionalism meeting expectations you’d find in any theatre company
Through this shared practice, we strengthen the our arts sector, build opportunities for young artists, and celebrate Canberra’s growing creative community.
Fees & Payment Structure
Payment plans are available. Instructions on how to set up a payment plan can be found here. A limited number of partial and full bursaries are also available. Please email info@canberrayouththeatre.com.au to discuss further.
Invoices are generated every Monday and Thursday. If you haven’t received your invoice after these days, please send us an email to info@canberrayouththeatre.com.au or call 02 6248 5057
We are currently out of the office, invoices will be generated when we return on 5 January.
You truly have been a lifeline to my daughter. She comes home after each workshop feeling energised and positive about herself. Thank you for the amazing work you do.
Parent Testimony
