A PASSIONATE theatre leader has shared the importance of the performing arts and how they can shape the lives of young people.

Applications have opened for the Nutshell theatre’s 2022/23 season, with youth members able to take part in productions such as Shrek the Musical Jr and Treasure Island.

The venue, in Kings Walk, is home to the Discarded Nut Youth Theatre (DNYT).

The company signed the lease with Winchester City Council for a permanent base in the 1890’s building in 2018.

Now, the performing arts group is looking to expand the company and use of its performing space.

Founder of DNYT, Noel Jones, shared the group’s ambitions to get more involved with the community and why the arts are so important to its young people.

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The theatre leader, from St Cross, said: “We have this gorgeous venue, and we can offer it to other people which is great but it’s still very much or own home. It’s a safe, welcoming space for so many young people to be themselves.

“Because we’re a small company our ethos is of trust, loyalty and respect is really important to us. We believe on the power of the performing arts to make people’s lives better. It’s so vital to people’s wellbeing, education and communication- to be able to see thing through the eyes of others.”

Hampshire Chronicle:

“During covid it was so vital for us to keep contact and that sense of community, so we moved the theatre online within one week of lockdown and adapted. Because of this we received no grants during this time as the business didn’t stop.

“Afterwards it was lovely because most of them came back and there was a consistency in place for them- giving them a sense of security that they could blossom again.”

“My Dad was a teacher and he used to say, ‘if you give a young person the chance to shine, they will.’ And it’s magical to watch it happen.

“We build companies of young people that support each other and become lifelong friends. Background, age, and school becomes irrelevant. They might never perform again but they’ve got all these skills and the confidence to speak.”

Hampshire Chronicle:

Last year, the company had around 100 members aged four to 25 within the youth section, but is now looking to expand its membership.

Plans for the new season, starting in September, include options for people interested in production and working backstage, re-launching the touring company to perform in areas where theatre is less accessible and improving ties with the wider community like the older generation and the local LGBTQ+ community.

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The mother of four added: “We want to introduce a curiosity shop, which is a work in progress, aimed at the LGBTQ+ community. We know there’s very limited opportunities for them to come together and we can provide that space.”

This year, the DNYT programme includes masterclasses with West End performers as well as the chance to get involved with productions including Shrek the Musical Jr, and The Nutshell’s Christmas show Treasure Island. The open layout of the theatre accommodates an audience of 60 to 70 people depending on the size of the cast.

For more, go to discardednut.co.uk/dnyt.

The Nutshell Theatre is also home to the Discarded Nut’s older acting company, The Walnuts, which is for people aged over 18 and fellow youth theatre company ENCORE. No previous acting experience is necessary to join any of the groups.

The former antiques marketplace can additionally be hired for commercial use and is equipped with a licenced bar.