OUR Alumni

Proud always #NGYTfamily

Tiana Hibble

Groups & Companies attended at NGYT
Theatre Company

Currently Studying
BA (Hons) Acting at Manchester School of Theatre

NGYT Highlight/Fondest Memory
There’s so many great memories that come to mind but one that sticks is definitely show week being surrounded by an amazing group of people you have created such an amazing show with and seeing eachother shine and flourish and just seeing all the weeks of hard work come together so perfectly will always be a highlight for me.

Advice for the Next Gen following in your footsteps
I would say take in everything the directors and co-directors say, they mean it and it will add amazing things to your toolbox.
I would also say use the company you join as a release, put your all into it and show up and commit because the outcome is definitely worth it.
Finally I would say when you audition come as yourself you don’t have to put on a show and put this crazy amount of pressure on yourself they will see your natural sparkle and potential if you come as yourself.


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Part of NGYT 2022-2023

Kenza JerBI

Groups & Companies attended at NGYT
IGen Theatre Company and Theatre Company

Currently Studying
BA (Hons) Acting at St Mary’s University

NGYT Highlight/Fondest Memory
In my first show with the Senior Theatre Company in 2020, I was super nervous at the beginning as I wanted to make a good impression!
We were in St Mary’s Church at the time because of the pandemic and we were all doing improvisations of little interactions you may see at a party.
We decided on a party theme as a company which felt very right having just come out of Covid. There was a scene with me and a fellow company member called Art, we were in a bath confessing our love for each other. Always a standout memory for me!

Advice for the Next Gen following in your footsteps
Go with your gut with everything you do in life, NGYT has taught me that it’s sometimes best to not pre-think and plan. Wether that’s in a check in or improv, go with your gut and simply, speak 🙂

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Part of NGYT 2019-2023

Andrew Jackson

Groups & Companies attended at NGYT
Street Dance, iGen Street Dance Company, iGen Contemporary Dance Company, Theatre Company and Meraki Dance Company

Currently Studying
BA (Hons) Dance and Drama at Kingston University

NGYT Highlight/Fondest Memory


Advice for the Next Gen following in your footsteps


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Part of NGYT 2012-2023

Shania Brown

Groups & Companies attended at NGYT
Theatre Company and Meraki Dance Company

Currently Studying
BA (Hons) Acting at Manchester School of Theatre

NGYT Highlight/Fondest Memory
Wow, I have so many, I'll never forget my audition.
I had kind of just rocked up in search for a theatre company to join but I was taken back by how welcoming and kind everyone was. I was made to feel so comfortable from the moment I stepped in I knew very quickly that this was a safe place for me where I would be listened to and appreciated which was so important for me at that time in my life.

The last week of 'Are We Nearly There Yet?', 'Be Still The Tide' and 'It's Just About Love Really…Isn't It?' were so thrilling but also reflective, being able to see how far we've come as a company and how much we have all grown and learned was just so rewarding to experience.
Seeing everyone's work come together and all our voices being shared and heard is such a blessing to be a part of.

Joining Meraki Dance Company was also a highlight for me. NGYT is a place that really encouraged me to push myself and just go for things and so I joined Dance Co in my second year and I am so glad I did.
It has grown my confidence and again being so welcomed really allowed me to feel comfortable and I have grown so much as a dancer because of it.

Advice for the Next Gen following in your footsteps
I would say listen as much as you can. There is so much to learn about people about yourself about the world and you grow so much as a person by listening.

I would also say to make your voice heard because your story matters and NGYT want to hear it and share it with the world.

Just throw yourself into things and say yes to every opportunity because there are so many available at NGYT and honestly they're all incredible.

Have faith in yourself and your abilities and just go for it!!

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Part of NGYT 2021-2023

Nathan Bucio

Groups & Companies attended at NGYT
Theatre Company and Meraki Dance Company

Currently Studying
BA (Hons) Dance and Drama at Kingston University

NGYT Highlight/Fondest Memory
I might be cheating here but I have two!
The first was when I was asked to be an Elf at Wardown House with Hannah.
At the time I was still a bit hesitant on NGYT but I think just taking up the extra opportunities NGYT has given me allowed me to see first hand just what NGYT was all about!
To be able to create this magical space for young people made me really admire the work that has gone into NGYT to make this possible.

The second was being able to do the Beyoncé flashmob! Genuinely every Thursday evening became such a highlight for me being able to dance with a group of amazing people and being able to participate in a flashmob felt like a dream come true and I'm forever grateful for that!

Advice for the Next Gen following in your footsteps

It's never too late to just throw yourself into things! I was only a part of NGYT for about 10 months but I've already found myself so ingrained in the community and I couldn't have asked for anything better!
So I would say that whatever opportunity comes your way with NGYT just take it, there's no harm in just trying it out 🙂

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Part of NGYT 2022-2023

Cerys Wrigley

Groups & Companies attended at NGYT
Theatre company

Currently Studying
BA Hons Drama and Contemporary Performance at Manchester School of Theatre

NGYT Highlight/Fondest Memory
Do I have to pick one!? I have loved every moment I've spent at NGYT, from coming in to auditions wearing bright yellow doc martens and an equally yellow sweater (when the dress code was all black) to my last show and a good hour of hugs and tears from everyone afterwards. I'm not going to get used to having a free Tuesday evening for a long time. I've made so many memories and met so many beautiful people, I wouldn't trade my time with NGYT for the world!

Advice for the Next Gen following in your footsteps
Throw yourself into everything! Friendships? Games? Workshops? Whatever it is just throw everything you have into it, the more you put in, the more you get out every time!

Were You There Image of teenagers partying

Part of NGYT 2017-2022

Jerome Leon

Groups & Companies attended at NGYT
Theatre Company

Currently Studying
BMus Performance and Recording

NGYT Highlight/Fondest Memory
My fondest memory from my time in theatre company would be when I first auditioned for theatre co as my friend and alumni Louise Rose attended.
I showed up in beige cargo trousers and some white top but everyone was in black, I felt a little bit embarrassed not gonna lie. However, no one made me feel bad about that or make me feel like I didn't belong although when I got in I definitely didn't feel like I deserved to be there or belong there it took some time for me to understand that this was a family that cared about me, who understood my fears and worries of belonging.

I would have to say a funny memory would be when I've helped out doing the elf job for the enchanted Christmas alongside other company members it was just so much fun just acting like a kid and bringing joy to those families.

My final fond moment I guess would be my last show with company where I really got to watch and take in on stage how far we've come, seeing those who were so shy come out of their shells and transform into who they are meant to be. Seeing those who'd be leaving like me and how great they are but also I understood that I had come so far and that this is what I'm meant to do.

Advice for the Next Gen following in your footsteps
I think one thing that is so unique about NGYT is that we can impact each others lives so much in so many different ways. As you begin to understand more about people who you grew up with, went to school with or just perfect strangers who can help shape you into who you could be.

From doing my first show with NGYT on zoom to 'Were You There?' to 'Are We Nearly There Yet?' I'm happy that I've been able contribute, learn, refine and feel comfortable to step out and go after my dreams/goals because of NGYT.
So if you are looking for a place to perform, find yourself, a family, NGYT is that and will forever be that.

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Part of NGYT 2019-2022

Alex Burgoyne

Groups & Companies attended at NGYT
Theatre Company

Currently Studying
BA Hons European Theatre Arts at Rose Bruford College

NGYT Highlight/Fondest Memory
Ooo theres so many to choose from! My fondest memory actually comes from my last week at NGYT. I felt so much more connected and at home with everyone more than ever before and I was really feeling the strong connections we all had as a company. After the final performance of Are We Nearly There Yet?
Everyone was so sentimental and lovely and we were all giving each other hugs and it just makes me smile whenever I look back on it. The immense love you feel from the NGYT family is unrivalled in many ways. #spreadthelove

Advice for the Next Gen following in your footsteps
Take your time. Dont force things, just let yourself go. Hang in there, even if things get tough. Youll always have the NGYT family. Be you, be brighter than the sun, rest easy in the knowledge that you lived the life you won. 🙂

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Part of NGYT 2020-2022

Julia Pergjoni

Groups & Companies attended at NGYT
Meraki Dance Company and Theatre Company

Currently Studying
BA (Hons) Acting and Performance at University of Arts London

NGYT Highlight/Fondest Memory
Although I was there for a year, I learnt so much about myself, others and my acting journey. For instance, the constant push and encouragement I received from the group and David, Laura and Lizzy allowed me to open up, take risks and trust myself more. I felt safe.

One of my favourite sessions was the flocking session. I've never flocked before and I wanted to make sure I was very open-minded and that there was no tension within my body so that I could fully express what I was feeling through body movement as well as being aware with the space around me. It was very emotional for me as we created something so special without using any words. The silence from us and the complete trust we gave to one another and our bodies added another layer - definitely a moment I won’t dare to forget.

Advice for the Next Gen following in your footsteps
Listen and speak... your words carry so much light, weight and beauty which enable the room to resonate and feel inspired. There were many moments in sessions where I heard something and it just allowed me to connect, think and create but also gave me the comfort to speak too. NGYT is a place where you and your stories matter.

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Part of NGYT 2021-2022

Arman Khan

Groups & Companies attended at NGYT
Theatre Company

Currently Studying:
BA Acting course at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire

NGYT Highlight/Fondest Memory
My highlight was playing a Muslim character for my first time in a theatre performance. As a religious Muslim I found it so rewarding to represent a Muslim in the modern era through theatre. This stood out to me especially when when we opened the play with breaking a fast with my non Muslim friends by eating dates and drinking water and eating samosas. It was truly a rewarding experience for me and I definitely see myself playing more Muslim characters in the future.

Advice for the Next Gen following in your footsteps
I would say that Laura and David are brilliant directors who look deep into what each individual can bring to a performance, so I would say trust them, even if it is just a little bit, and allow them to help incorporate you in a performance. Also if you have an idea go for it and tell it to the company, be heard.

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Part of NGYT 2020 -2022

Kiyana Maragh 

Groups and Companies attended at NGYT
Theatre Company

Currently Studying:
BA (Hons) Acting and Performance

NGYT highlight/fondest memory
When first starting NGYT I was a few months into my gap year still feeling very uncertain about whether I was on the right path.
I knew I wanted to take the time to grow, venture out my comfort zone and try new things. When Cerys and Julia both recommended for me to join this company I never thought that I’d be a part of something so magical, surrounded by the most remarkable people that I now consider my theatre family.

After my first session, I immediately knew this is where I wanted to be. NGYT has not only helped me on my own personal journey with finding myself, but has also reinforced my love for acting so much. I will never be able to fully express my gratitude and love that I have for David and Laura for seeing potential in a girl who in the beginning of her gap year never really saw it in herself.

I really believe joining this company came at the right time for me… I’m going to miss you all so much!

Advice for the Next Gen following in your footsteps
Don’t think just do! It’s okay to not be sure about where you are at the moment. But in this moment, be willing to take that risk if it involves doing something you love. We all start from somewhere.
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Part of NGYT 2013-2020

Molly Sims

Groups & Companies attended at NGYT
Musical Theatre Junior Company, Musical Theatre Senior Company and Theatre Company

Currently Studying
BA Hons Drama & Applied Theatre at London South Bank University

NGYT Highlight/Fondest Memory
Too many to list them all! My main highlight is having the opportunity to create and collaborate with the young people at NGYT through teaching and assisting and hearing their stories. Every single one of them. I think another favourite will always be singing on stage for the first time in the musical theatre class and making Laura Lloyd cry. Another favourite was taking The Butterfly Catcher to Brighton Fringe and the pride felt getting amazing reviews and an award to bring back to Luton.

Advice for the Next Gen following in your footsteps
Go for the opportunity that scares you a little. You will not regret it. It could be the start of something AMAZING. Stay humble and remember where you came from. And ALWAYS remember to bring props when asked... ahem theatre company

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Part of NGYT 2013-2020

Cameron Mullane

Groups & Companies attended at NGYT
iGen Theatre Company 2013-2016
Theatre company 2015-2019

Qualifications
BA (Hons) Acting at Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts

NGYT Highlight/Fondest Memory
The double bill of In Doing Nothing I Found Me and The Butterfly Catcher in 2017. Looking back, I think that’s the point where I realised acting is what I want to do with my future, and I haven’t looked back since

Advice for the Next Gen following in your footsteps
Backup plans, though a safety net, mean you’re not 100% focused on what you want to do. If you know what you want to achieve, put your all into it and the results will show eventually. Trust the process.

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Part of NGYT 2013-2019

Iman Mweta

Groups & Companies attended at NGYT
Theatre Company

Qualification
1st Class BSc (Hons) Developmental and Educational Psychology at The University of Northampton

Currently
I am training to become a teacher. I have also recently started an online beauty business as a side hustle which currently showcases cosmetics, and will also include a range of beauty products.

NGYT Highlight/Fondest Memory
I have endless fond memories of NGYT. I remember my first performance of Mirror Sky with Tangled Feet. It was so vibrant. Returning to NGYT last year was another fond memory.

Advice for the Next Gen following in your footsteps
Believe in yourself and you will be unstoppable! Had I doubted myself to even audition for NGYT, I would have never got this far. Another word of advice is that even if you progress into another field of study as a profession, you can still perform on the side. As I will be going into the teaching profession, I will still perform on the side during holidays and I will implement my skills and performing experience into my teaching practice to foster creative engagement.

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Part of NGYT 2017-2019

Sasha-Marie Campbell

Groups & Companies attended at NGYT
Dance company

Currently Studying
Sports Therapy at Leeds Beckett University

NGYT Highlight/Fondest Memory
My fondest moment from NGYT was at the start, during the creating and performing of “what she said”. The way that David created a script based around the ensemble and our experiences made this piece so personal. The way in which we are always encouraged to contribute ideas and opinions always makes you feel like a sole part of the creation of the piece. The movement devised by Laura was second to none. Coming into an NGYT company at the age of 14 is hard but if you commit yourself, NGYT will commit themselves to you and help you become the best that you can be.

Advice for the Next Gen following in your footsteps
Be a sponge! Suck in as much knowledge from those around you as you can learn from anyone. Take risks! Even though some may not work out the way you want you will learn through the experience. Stay humble.

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Part of NGYT 2014-2018

Maria Cantero

Groups & Companies attended at NGYT
Theatre company

Currently Studying
Law at London South Bank University

NGYT Highlight/Fondest Memory
My entire time at NGYT has been one of the best experiences and it’s an experience that has widely contributed to molding me into the person I am today. Whenever I’ve gone through difficult times and felt lost, NGYT has always been a place where I felt myself and being part of Laced Within Our Boarders is an experience that will always be close to my heart. Being part of the show allowed me to let my voice be heard and confidently be myself, it allowed me to voice my story amongst people who became my second family. What I loved most about the show is that it touched everyone in some way and I find that to be a very beautiful thing. Another thing I feel extremely grateful for NGYT has helped me with is my mental health ~ my family and friends always mention how happy and confident I’ve become since I’ve joined NGYT and it’s become a second home for me.

Advice for the Next Gen following in your footsteps
Take a leap of faith ~ don’t let fear stop you. NGYT is a safe creative space that challenges you and allows you to be confident in your abilities and grow as a performer. Take this opportunity and don’t let it go to waste because of fear or doubt because what’s the worst that can happen?? Having an opportunity like this can be a step in a beautiful journey.

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Part of NGYT 2017-2019

Emily Rose

BA Hons Dance and Professional Practice at the University of Bedfordshire. “NGYT has been the backbone for me during this period in my life; The perfect preparation leading up to Uni. They are family to me and they are right at the heart of young people chasing their dreams no matter their background or personal circumstances. I feel a connection with them all as they never pass judgement and welcome everyone. The directors of NGYT inspire me because they have children and are still making things happen which has given me inspiration as a Mother myself. NGYT push, challenge and pull out talent within young people to better their skills but this is all done within a loving family unit.”
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Part of NGYT 2014 - 2019

Daniel Hunt

Groups & Companies attended at NGYT
Theatre company

Currently Studying
Msc Physics and Philosophy at Oxford University

NGYT Highlight/Fondest Memory
It's so difficult to choose a "best moment", as I have had so many great moments with NGYT over the years. Being part of the Theatre Company has had such a positive impact on me and I shall treasure the time we've had for years to come. That being said, some of my absolute favourite moments have been performing 'The Butterfly Catcher' in 2017 and being part of the mind-blowing 'Hat factory reset' in 2019.

Advice for the Next Gen following in your footsteps
Don’t let yourself believe that there are certain things that you just can’t do, that certain aspirations or goals are unattainable; out of your reach. You have the potential to shape the world in any way you want. However, you must be willing to put in the work to make that happen. It won’t be easy, but it’s possible. If you really want something, then with hard work and tenacity you can achieve it.

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Part of NGYT 2013-2019

Lori Gregory

BA Hons Dance at creative academy.
"NGYT has taught me so much about myself and my passion for dance. I hadn’t done dance before starting NGYT and I am now leaving to get a degree in this area which pretty much sums up the impact they have had on me! I have made so many friends for life!"

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Part of NGYT 2014 - 2018

Rhys Crownshaw

Groups & Companies attended at NGYT
Theatre company

Recently Studied:
BA (Hons) Acting and MA Acting at Plymouth Conservatoire

NGYT Highlight/Fondest Memory
I would love to say everything! But if I could pick out one it would have to be the performing 'Laced within Our Borders'

Advice for the Next Gen following in your footsteps
To have fun and believe! Believe in your ability and show what you’re made of. I can easily and proudly say that NGYT was easily the best 4 years of my life. They allowed me to have opportunities that I wouldn’t have had anywhere else and they allowed me to see that I am capable of doing anything. I love NGYT with all my heart and they will hold a big place in my heart for a very long time. David and Laura are an inspiration to me and without their care, guidance and love for what they do I wouldn’t be doing what I love. Thank you isn’t enough. Being able to devise a show around young people’s voices is something I loved and felt honoured to do. Every time I was up performing with NGYT I felt at home and so so proud. They were easily the best shows I’ve ever been in. And I know where ever I am, I’m thinking of NGYT and I know something amazing is about to happen.

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Part of NGYT 2015-2018

Bethany White

BTEC L3 Extended Diploma in Performing Arts at The Pad

"NGYT always gave me a place to feel at home away from home. My confidence was always very low when it came to performing and starting with Laura at the end of 2012 in street dance was the first step in growing my confidence. I then went on to join the theatre company in 2014 which allowed me to do what I loved.

Without Laura and David I wouldn’t have ever gone on to do the course I am currently on and I would still be the shy girl they met back in 2012. I learnt so much from everyone older and younger and it has also allowed me to make friends I feel I will be with for life, it really is a big family environment which I will treasure and love forever."

 

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Part of NGYT 2012 - 2018

Michelle Grace

Groups & Companies attended at NGYT
Theatre Company

Current job, position held, course attending
BA Politics, Sociology and Spanish at Durham University


NGYT highlight/fondest memory
My fondest memory of NGYT wasn't any specific day or event, it was walking into theatre company every Tuesday night! I look back with pride on the shows I performed in ("In Doing Nothing" will always have a special place in my heart), but what I treasure most is the feeling of love and safety that comes with being part of NGYT. There is something magic about this company that has touched my life in a very special and very permanent way. NGYT helped me gain confidence and acquire professional performance skills, but they have also shaped my values, my attitudes and my growth as a young person. There are too many highlights to choose just one.


Advice for the Next Gen following in your footsteps
Take every opportunity you get – say yes!! Open your heart and mind to everything that NGYT has to offer, and step up onto the platform that they give you with pride and with courage. Approach the work that you do with respect, honesty, humility and vulnerability – you absolutely will get out what you put in. And enjoy the process! Have fun and take risks 🙂

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Part of NGYT 2014-2018

Forrest Jones

Groups & Companies you attended at NGYT
Theatre company

Most relevant and recent qualifications, training or experiences
Graduated from Bath Spa University in 2020 with a bachelors degree in acting

Currently
I am currently on my way to earning an intermediate qualification in Stage combat, as well as assisting teaching beginner level stage combat techniques to students.

NGYT highlight/fondest memory
I wasn't a part of NGYT for a very long time but the year I spent in the company was one of the best I've had. Not only did they encourage me to trust myself and become a better actor in the process, they also gave me friends and a family I will always remember and can always count on. As for my fondest memory, nothing can possibly compare to being on stage performing a double bill of 'The Butterfly catcher' and 'In doing nothing I found me' with the talented actors and friends that made up the Theatre company at the time.

Advice for the Next Gen following in your footsteps
To anyone new to NGYT my biggest piece of advice is to trust yourself, if you're a part of this amazing company it means David and Laura believe in you and see something fantastic in you, so don't be scared to let it all out. As much as NGYT is about making incredible, meaningful theatre It's also a place to find yourself, so go all in, be big, and I guarantee you'll have the time of your life.
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Part of NGYT 2016 -2017

Dayna Mullane

BA Hons Media Practice at University of Sussex
"I have loved every minute of being with NGYT from the classes to company. I’ve managed to learn so much from even the littlest of people and it has allowed me to be more creative and strengthen me as a person”

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Part of NGYT 2012 - 2017

Shelby Hannon

BA (Hons) Drama And Italian at Royal Holloway University of London.
“Firstly, NGYT provided me with real professional experience as a performer! Performing in places, such as at Brighton Fringe Festival and the Royal Opera House, this gave me real insight into the life of a performer. This for me meant that I had every certainty that performing was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life! These experiences gave me a platform to progress further in the professional world. (And impressive experience for my CV!) which also made a favourable candidate when I applied for my university degree.

Secondly, teaching for NGYT gave me experiences and lessons that I will use for the rest of my life! Managing classes and choreographing is now my life and I am currently the captain of my university’s champion Hip Hop Dance Team! And I spend the majority of my time at university dancing and choreographing! All of my creations revolve around a physical and imaginative style of theatre and I thank my experience at NGYT for allowing me to know how to do this well. My current creations involve African contemporary influences and I am very excited to return to NGYT and hopefully collaborate in the near future to help me along with my degree. “

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Part of NGYT 2012 -2015

Shaquille Brathwaite

2:1 BA Hons Dance at University of Chichester. “Joining NGYT was easily the best decision I have ever made. Without the guidance of David and Laura there is no way I would be where I am now. Throughout my time at NGYT not only did I gain valuable experience in performing but also in teaching as I had the pleasure of working for the company as a street dance teacher. I was able to learn so much in such a small amount of time and I know everything I learned whilst I was there I will continue to use for the rest of my career. #NGYTFAMILYFOREVER”
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Part of NGYT 2012 - 2015

Darina McMorrow

Groups & Companies you attended at NGYT
Theatre Company & Contemporary Dance

Currently
3rd year at The Performance Preparation Academy (PPA) Guildford.

NGYT highlight/fondest memory
My first performance with NGYT ‘The Butterfly Catcher’. I loved being able to experiment with interpreting the meaning of the text and the characters/their journeys from my own experiences and feelings. David and Laura always created such a safe space for us to have no fear about ‘being wrong’. This then allowed us to create such powerful important pieces of theatre that will always have a personal place in my heart!

Advice for the Next Gen following in your footsteps
Throw yourself in, don’t judge yourself, don’t judge others. Find your special quality that you bring and don’t let your inner critic stop you from completely immersing yourself in all your work.

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Part of NGYT 2014 - 2017

Matt Hall

I work at a primary school in Luton. I will soon be completing my degree to become a teacher. “A few words; utterly brilliant. A highly creative and professional experience; the skills in which I gained at NGYT will follow me throughout my career.”
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Part of NGYT 2012 - 2014

Jessica Bourne

1st Class BA (Hons) Theatre Arts at Middlesex University
“David and Laura provided me with experiences and opportunities I would be hard pushed to find anywhere else, and for that I will always be grateful. As company members, we were always listened to and scripts were created with and around us, pieces of theatre telling our own stories based on our own experiences. Two hours every week encouraged us to thrive as performers and creators; weeks with extra rehearsals were never a chore as we were always doing the things we loved, surrounded by our best friends. Those three years helped to further develop me as a person, growing in self-confidence and fueling my desire to never work outside of the arts. My time at NGYT will always be held dear and even now I will occasionally feel a pang of jealousy on a Monday or a Tuesday night, knowing that something amazing is happening at The Hat Factory in Luton.”

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Part of NGYT 2012 - 2015

Kirstie Johnston

1st Class BA (Hons) in Performing Arts at De Monfort University
“I loved my time at NGYT and it gave me a completely different view of how theatre can be made through a devising process which set me up to build upon with a degree in this area"

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Part of NGYT 2012 - 2014

Lauren Williams

Groups & Companies you attended at NGYT
Theatre Company and Musical Theatre


Most relevant and recent qualifications, training or experiences
1st Class Honours in BA Performing Arts at De Montfort University


Currently
Nursery Nurse and Co-Founder of a new start up company Glass Heart Theatre

NGYT highlight/fondest memory
Picking one highlight or memory is such a difficult task when you’re given the opportunities and experiences NGYT provide. I think one moment that will always stick with me was when we were first devising The Butterfly Catcher. The group I was a part of were the ones who were working on devising the exam scene, where the cast are all sat down writing and suddenly their pens pull them from their seats to standing, like butterflies floating. You could feel the energy, the excitement and the electricity in the room about what we had just created and it felt so good to have done that not only as a team but with a group of friends like ours. Another fond memory was being invited back to NGYT when I was at University to take part in performing Mirror Sky with NGYT and Tangled Feet, that will always stay with me and be one of my favourite performances.

My experience at NGYT was one of a kind, like nothing you’ll find anywhere else. Not only did I learn such valuable lessons in the world of theatre and the performing arts but also made lifelong memories and some wonderful friends along the way. I was lucky enough to receive some fantastic experiences and opportunities throughout my time at NGYT which I’ll forever be grateful for. It’s helped me grow not only as a performing artist but as a person too. My NGYT experience was an amazing adventure; one that I’d never change in a million years!

Advice for the Next Gen following in your footsteps
It may sound cliche, but honestly just go for it. Take risks and make movements. But also don’t be scared, worried or put off of those risks and footsteps don’t lead you in the direction you thought you’d end up in. No mistake is a failure, make any mistake a learning opportunity, that goes for life and for theatre. And always believe in yourself and your passion for what you love to do. Be creative always and think outside of the box. Dare to be adventurous and you will be rewarded. I personally have taken a long break from performing because I lost my confidence but I’ve slowly gained it back and starting this new company with my friends from University has relit the passion and fire I had inside for creating art and I’m so excited to see where this new adventure takes us!
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Part of NGYT 2012 -2015

Luke Bigg

Groups and Companies you attended at NGYT
Theatre Company & Musical Theatre

Qualifications
1st Class BA (Hons) in Performing Arts at De Montfort University

Currently
Actor/Technician for UK touring show, Night of the Living Dead Remix - Content Producer at Bleach Productions

NGYT highlight/fondest memory
The highlight of my entire NGYT experience had to be the the climax of RIP NED, delivering a intense speech alongside Sam before the pair of us where swarmed. A moment I'll remember forever.

Looking back on my time as part of the NGYT Company, the benefit it had on preparing me for both later study and the professional industry is second to none. The focus on contemporary practice gave me a great foundation for creating my own work for modern audiences. NGYT instilled in me a love for the arts through the passion and commitment of its excellent teachers and staff. The varied range of disciplines offered by NGYT enabled me to develop myself as a performer, from dance lessons to acting and vocal workshops, not only did NGYT help to develop my skills, my experiences with the company helped shape who I am and what I do today.

Advice for the Next Gen following in your footsteps
Just go for it! Even if you don't know what it is yet, the best thing to do is get your teeth stuck in and let the experience guide you. Nobody ever did anything great with first taking those initial steps.

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Part of NGYT 2012 - 2014

Sam Edmunds

Groups & Companies you attended at NGYT
NGYT Theatre Company & NGYT Dance Company

Qualifications
1st Class Honours in BA Acting and Contemporary Theatre at East 15 Acting School

Currently
Founder & Co-Artistic Director of Chalk Line Theatre Company

NGYT highlight/fondest memory
My highlight will always be playing 'Simmy' in The Butterfly Catcher at the Brighton Fringe Festival and the show winning the 'Outstanding Theatre' Award! This was our first snippet of working professionally in the industry and we had an incredible time.
NGYT provided teaching that no other institution could offer me at that age. Putting the students at the heart of all of their work allowed us to thrive and develop as creatives, as well as make friends and enjoy the arts. The experience I gained was invaluable and I will never forget my time spent at NGYT.”

Advice for the Next Gen following in your footsteps
Know that this industry is a place that you can thrive in and access. Knock down barriers, turn up, create, take risks, ask questions and trust in yourself & your ability. There is a vast amount of jobs in the arts, search around and find what is right for you and don't be scared if this changes from time to time. Also the best piece of advice is ENJOY it and enjoy the journey.

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Part of NGYT 2012 -2015

Charmaine Zinyemba

Groups & Companies attended at NGYT
Theatre Company

Qualifications
Bachelor of Arts. First Class in Theatre and Professional Practice.

Currently Studying
PGCE Secondary Drama (as of September 2019)

NGYT Highlight/Fondest Memory
My favourite thing about NGYT was how it connected me to people who I would have never saw myself having a relationship with. Being in the same company as the older students I went to school with was a massive confidence builder, being able to develop relationships with the people I looked up to in school made me feel respected and capable of achieving what I could see in them but not in myself. I remember the first time I was on stage with the company members I admired, I really felt like I belonged to something so amazing. I have more than one fond memory of my time at NGYT but most of all I am extremely grateful for all the opportunities that were presented to me and for the part that NGYT played in bettering me as a young person.

Advice for the Next Gen following in your footsteps
GET INVOLVED!!! There is so much you learn by just being around and getting stuck in. You have nothing to lose but so much to gain!

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Part of NGYT 2012 - 2016

niall brennan

Groups & Companies attended at NGYT
IGen Theatre Co 2016-17
Theatre Company 2017-21

Currently Studying
BA (Hons) Film

NGYT Highlight/Fondest Memory
There are so many highlights and memories I could choose from my time at NGYT so i’m gonna choose from the start. I first joined NGYTs unauditioned monday group however they decided to try me out in the auditioned company meaning I had to go alone. I was so nervous but as soon as I walked in I felt instant relief as I could feel how warm and welcoming it was straight away without any judgement. This allowed me to make friends who are friends for life and where all the amazing memories I had after began.

Advice for the Next Gen following in your footsteps
Always be yourself. And don’t forget to play and have fun!

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Part of NGYT 2016-2021

Rhyanna Lewis-Brown

Groups & Companies attended at NGYT
Theatre Company

Qualifications
BA (Hons) Festival Management with Drama Studies At De Montfort University

Current job, position held, course attending
Trainee teacher

NGYT highlight/fondest memory
NGYT was the best thing that I’ve ever done. It has helped me grow as a  person and an actor, as well as giving me some unforgettable memories.  My passion for the arts has grown all because of NGYT and what they offer and provide to young people. It’s been a time of my life I will not forget and I cannot wait to come back and see all of the amazing work the company members have been working on!
Performing In Doing Nothing I Found Me was such an amazing experience with the most amazing people.

Advice for the Next Gen following in your footsteps
Follow your dreams and never ever let anyone tell you you can or can't do something!

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Part of NGYT 2015 - 2016

We would love to hear from all our NGYT alumni, whatever career path you have chosen to take, you were part of the NGYT journey and always part of the NGYT family.
Please update us by filling in the form below and send us a picture of your choice to david@ngyt.co.uk
By doing this you will then be added to this page for us to proudly share your next chapter.