Queen's Theatre Hornchurch Celebrates 25 Years of Nurturing Young Talent

The Queen's Theatre Hornchurch is thrilled to be celebrating 25 years of nurturing and showcasing young talent in the form of its dynamic youth theatre, QYouth this July. To mark this brilliant achievement, the theatre is hosting a celebratory family fundraising weekend on 8 - 9 July. It's an opportunity for the theatre and the local community to come together and celebrate the success and development of its youth theatre, QYouth; as well as fundraise so it can continue to grow and enrich the lives of young people for the next 25 years.

Families throughout Essex and East London are invited to join in the celebrations and can expect a range of fun games, stalls and workshops in the theatre's foyer from 10am - 7.30pm on both days. A free exhibition celebrating QYouth's history will also be in held in the café. A cast of over 120 young people from the theatre's QYouth will be providing the entertainment, treating audiences to a world premiere of the family favourite, The Wind in the Willows.

This production has been specially adapted by James Watson and Andrew Linham to mark this fantastic milestone. Performances are at 7pm on 8 & 9 July, with an additional 2pm show on 9 July and tickets are £14. This production is sponsored by East Thames and supported by the Queen's Theatre's very own Theatre Club. Founded in 1954, Theatre Club has played a pivotal role in raising funds and generously donating to the theatre which contributes towards the creation of new productions.

The club has a strong social aspect with a variety of planned trips to theatres, gardens and short holidays across the country. Over the last 25 years, the theatre's youth theatre has provided over 95,000 engagement opportunities for young people aged 7-18 in Havering. The QYouth programme offers young people opportunities in drama, dance and technical theatre, enabling them to develop their creativity in the arts, unlock potential, gain confidence and have fun through the power of theatre. Graduates of QYouth include Lloyd Warbey (Disney's Art Attack), GEmma Salter (TV and West End performer) and Billy Irving who will be appearing in the upcoming UK tour of War Horse.

The theatre's Learning & Participation Producer James Watson says, 'This weekend is set to celebrate all that QYouth has become, with a large cast ensemble show celebrating the full breadth of our current membership, whilst allowing past members, parents and potential members of the future to join in the fun with our celebratory events, fundraising activities and reminiscent opportunities.' So join in this fantastic weekend of games, theatre and fun that the whole family can enjoy in support of the Queen's Theatre's vibrant youth theatre. It's been at the heart of the community for thousands of young people and the funds raised will go towards continuing to support young people passionate about the arts for years to come.

If you or your business would like to contribute towards the QYouth 25th Anniversary weekend, you can donate through our Box Office on 01708 443333 or alternatively by donate prizes to be used over the weekend. For more information contact development@queens-theatre.co.uk.

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