New theatre group launching for budding young stars in the Esk Valley

Danby Young Players are a new theatre group starting up in the Esk Valley. Picture: submitted.

A new musical theatre group for youngsters in the Esk Valley is being launched later this year.

Danby Players and Riffs Hooks and Lines are forming Danby Young Players, a brand-new group for children aged eight and over.

An untapped wealth of young talent in the Esk Valley has inspired the new group. Picture: submitted.

The two organisations say the wealth of young talent is evident in school productions, choirs and arts festivals but there hasn’t been a dedicated musical theatre group for young people in the area for some time.

Danby Players and Riffs Hooks and Lines are looking to bridge that gap by opening a youth section dedicated to developing the next generation of performers.

Weekly sessions begin on Tuesday September 1, where members will work towards a showcase performance in November.

Budding young actors, dancers and singers are encouraged to join the new group. Picture: submitted.

The production will feature songs from some of the best-loved musicals, including The Sound of Music, High School Musical, Matilda and Annie.

There will also be opportunities for young actors to develop acting skills with scenes from popular shows, while dancers have the chance to shine as part of the performance.

The group will be led by Lizzie Jeeves, the director of Riffs Hooks and Lines and a drama teacher with more than 15 years’ experience.

Lizzie Jeeves, a drama teacher will be leading the new group. Picture: submitted.

She was most recently seen on stage in Danby’s production of Annie Get Your Gun and told The Anchor she is “passionate about creating a fun, supportive environment where young people can build confidence, make friends and develop their performance skills.”

Young people do not need any stage experience to join the group. Anyone interested in joining is encouraged to register by emailing riffshooksandlines@gmail.com

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