productions...

Christmas 2009

The Wizard of Oz

Revisiting this popular and long lived musical for the third time in 19 years of PYT productions, Director, Nik Ashton's fresh approach made sure that this Yellow Brick Road was altogether different to those from the past. Musical Director, Benjamin Gudgeon brought his experience and expertise to the show, working with the young cast to produce some polished and tight performances from both the ensemble and the main characters. Tim Lutkin's lighting design added an extra dimension to the atmosphere creating a memorable storm sequence and some impressive effects as Dorothy and her friends made their way to Oz. This production was sold out, proving once again, that tickets to PYT's productions need to be snapped up early if you want to see one of the leading Youth Theatres in the South of England.

Carmen

PYT's greatest challenge to date - a new and innovative interpretation of Bizet's opera Carmen, with a complex and demanding musical score, was taken on with maturity and courage by the young cast. Staged with a minimalist and atmospheric set, focus was on the performers and their delivery of the emotional, but tragic story of Carmen and her lover Don José. Directed by Nik Ashton, with Nicolas Bloomfield as Musical Director, Tim Lutkin as Lighting Designer and special support from vocal coach, Kate Woolveridge, this production set new standards for PYT, as it continues to push the boundaries of what is achievable with a dedicated production team and committed membership.

An all time favourite with both cast and audiences alike, Bugsy Malone was a popular choice for the second production of the 2009 Autumn Season. Some of the younger PYT members stepped up to fill the shoes of the more seasoned performers, and with splurge guns blazing this show had the look of a professional production. PYT is now renowned for its colourful productions and cleverly staged dance numbers and Bugsy Malone fulfilled everyone's expectations in both these departments.

Christmas 2008

Peter Pan

In December, Nik Ashton adapted J.M. Barrie's story into a musical adventure, and directed a fresh and sparkling production of the classic tale about the boy who never grew up. It's hard to imagine Peter Pan without the principal characters flying to Neverland, and this was achieved with magical effect and help from Flying by Foy. The atmosphere of adventure and drama was created by Tim Lutkin's spectacular lighting design, and the cast performed with their usual professionalism, energy and sense of fun. PYT's Peter Pan was sold out two weeks before opening night, proving that the company's reputation for outstanding productions is spreading far and wide. A donation was made to Great Ormond Street Hospital along with the licence fee, in line with J.M Barrie's request that all Peter Pan royalties should go to his favourite cause.

The Silver Sword

PYT had the great privilege to work with the composer Richard Taylor on his adaptation of The Silver Sword by Ian Serraillier. Based on the true story of four young people travelling across Europe in the 1940s, from war torn Warsaw to freedom in Switzerland where they are re-united with their parents, it is an epic adventure and a moving tribute to the bravery of refugees world wide. The action was constantly moving with a cast of 80 representing the many displaced people. Richard Taylor's score was uplifting and vocally demanding, but the young cast rose to the challenge and the production was one of the most atmospheric and moving productions ever performed by PYT. The Silver Sword was reviewed as an "Unforgettable PYT Triumph".

Honk!

A previous winner of the Oliver Award for Best Musical and based on the story of the Ugly Ducking, Honk! was an immensely popular and fun choice for PYT. Featuring some great cameo roles and delightful characterisations Honk! allowed PYT members to show their talent with no reservations. An uncluttered but effective set, wonderfully colourful costumes and stunning lighting added to the enjoyment of this light hearted version of the Hans Christian Andersen story.