National Youth Theatre (NYT) is the world’s first youth theatre. Founded in London in 1956, it is well known for nurturing young talent, responsible for graduates who later became internationally acclaimed actors, including Daniel Craig, Helen Mirren, Chiwetel Ejiofor and Colin Firth.

The current Artistic Director, Paul Roseby OBE, originally joined NYT as an actor. After a career in broadcasting, he returned to NYT and serves as both Artistic Director (since 2004) and CEO (since 2012). Under his leadership, the theatre has evolved from a training ground for actors into an organization that also encourages young people from all kinds of backgrounds to gather and use theatre as a tool for social change. Roseby is passionate that NYT should remain open to young people from all corners of Britain, saying, “If we don’t represent the true cultural diversity of this country, we’re not a national organization.”

Every year, NYT holds auditions for around 5,000 young people from all across the UK who apply for the opportunity to join one of the courses. There are various courses available for those aged 11 to 30, ranging from introductory workshops to masterclasses. While the general age limit is 25, individuals with disabilities and neurodivergent individuals can apply up to age 30.

The company also offers special courses in collaboration with organizations like Netflix and Microsoft. These go beyond acting, providing young people with opportunities to gain skills in playwriting, directing, set design, costume design and other theatre related roles.

In 2013, NYT launched a free, nine-month intensive programme, “NYT Rep Company,” where 18 participants are chosen to focus on developing their craft, creating something like the experience of drama school, though without the cost. Freya Purdie, a 23-year-old from Scotland and member of the 11th year of Rep, says, “A lot of people who do National Youth Theatre become actors and everyone’s got it on their CV. It feels like a family and the fact that it’s offers financial support is really great.”

Selorm Adonu, a 22-year-old Rep graduate now works professionally and says that NYT’s strength is to bring together people from completely different backgrounds who share a love and passion for theatre.

NYT’s activities extend internationally. During the Cold War period, the company performed in Moscow and in the early 2000s staged multiple productions in China. At the 2008 Olympic handover ceremony in Beijing, NYT showcased the best of British talent in the “Bird’s Nest” stadium. In 2012, 200 members participated in creating and performing ceremonies welcoming the athletes to the London Olympics and Paralympics.

As NYT approaches its 70th anniversary in 2026, it is planning a collaborative event with youth arts organizations worldwide, using innovative digital technology to amplify the voices and stories of the next generation.