<img src='' title='Author: marina.admin' alt='' id='templ_icon_' width='' height='' /> Author: marina.admin

A new youth theatre group will cover everything from Shakespeare to musical productions when it launches in Lowestoft.

The Marina Theatre Trust is encouraging young people with a passion for (or even just a passing interest in) theatre to attend sessions every Saturday morning during term time – in the New Year.

There will be two age groups (9-12 years and 13-16 years) and each session will cover a variety of performance styles and genres – including creative writing, musical theatre and technical theatre skills.

The sessions will culminate in a summer production on the Marina Theatre stage.

Members of the youth theatre will also have access to discounted tickets on selected shows and specialist workshops throughout the year, as well as the opportunity to take part in a number of fun projects.

Will Isgrove, Head of Young People and Outreach, said: “The sessions will be held at the Marina Theatre and our expert tutors can’t wait to get started by telling fantastic stories in unique and creative ways.

“We’re hoping that much of the work we do will be guided by the group and we’re really excited to see where we can go.”

A free taster session will be held on Saturday, January 7th 2017 at 9:30am. As part of the initiative, The Marina Theatre Trust is also looking for a Young Associate to join their team.

“The ideal person would be between 16 and 22 and passionate about working with young people and developing their experience in the performing arts,” Will added. The Young Associate will work alongside our tutors and play an important role in deciding how the Youth Theatre develops and will have the opportunity to assist with other projects within the theatre. A range of informative and fun workshops and activities are also available for schools and college groups – all run by experienced professional theatre practitioners.”

For more information and to register your interest in the Youth Theatre email willisgrove@marinatheatre.co.uk

It is one of the most challenging endurance races in the world – with true grit and determination required for a staggering 26.2 miles. But for one Lowestoft man, the physical challenge is all in aid of a number of new theatre projects.

Will Isgrove, 29, is taking part in his debut London Marathon to raise money for the Marina Theatre Trust. Will, who has been Head of Young People and Outreach at the theatre since October, has been involved in setting up and running a new youth theatre group, an over 50s drama group, working with schools and colleges and generally trying to highlight opportunities and activities for people in the community.

The money raised will go directly to enhance these projects, so more people across East Anglia, can get involved with the theatre.

“A huge part of my work revolves around establishing the theatre as a central part of the community and becoming a hub for local people of all ages and backgrounds,” Will said. “We have never had anything like this at the Marina before and we’re really excited about the good work we can do. I am running the London Marathon to raise money for the Marina to be able to deliver our ambitions and help make a real impact in Lowestoft.”

The Marina Theatre Trust is a registered charity, located in the heart of Lowestoft. They regularly host a diverse selection of shows and productions, along with cinema screenings. Their Café Bar has recently launched a new winter menu, although Will may be sticking to a strict diet and training regime!

“Being a new boy in the office, I was the natural choice (and only volunteer) for a 26 mile jaunt around London! I have a reasonable base level of fitness, by which I mean I can walk the two flights of stairs to the office without wheezing, but have never even contemplated attempting anything like this before. Any support you can offer is massively appreciated and helps us make the Marina the best venue it can be for Lowestoft.”

To support Will and to pledge a donation, visit http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/WillIsgrove

A Christmas Show will feature some of the most popular festive songs when it takes place at the Marina Theatre.

The Joe Ringer Band presents ‘It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas’ – on Friday, December 2 at 7.30pm – marking their debut at the theatre.

Fairytale of New York, Winter Wonderland, White Christmas, All I want for Christmas Is You, Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, Jingle Bells and I Wish it Could Be Christmas Everyday are just some of the songs the audience can expect – with six of the region’s top singers performing especially – arranged versions of the favourite tunes.

They will be backed by a live band.

The performance will also feature the DPA Academy of Performing Arts show choir, made up from youngsters aged 11-18.

“There is something in the show for everyone from kids to grandparents,” Joe said. “We span the whole range of Christmas songs, from traditional carols and arias, through the swinging crooners of the 1940s and 1950s to modern pop classics. Earlier this year, we performed a big band show to more than 900 people at the Norwich Theatre Royal to standing ovations and great acclaim. There is something inexplicably magic about this time of the year and the songs that have been written for and about it. Just hearing those first few bars of your favourite festive tune warms your heart.”

Christmas is also a special time of the year personally for Joe and his family.

“I have so many fond memories of past family Christmases growing up in Norwich. The day the Christmas cassette came out in the car was always a special one for me. I think I know every Christmas song by heart, handy as I have very few lyrics to learn.”

Tickets are priced at £18 and £16 for concessions. They are available by calling 01502 533200 or by booking online here.

Bring the whole family to explore, discover and create with the Marina Theatre Family Open Days…

Saturday 11th February from 11:00am

The historic Marina Theatre will open its doors for these family-friendly events and will offer you an exclusive opportunity to explore our theatre, discover how we work, take part and learn more about the exciting world of theatre!

Activities will include drama, dance, music workshops for all ages, costume and make-up demos, treasure hunts, the chance to explore backstage, and much more… and all absolutely free!

There is no need to book for the Open Days, just turn up on the day and join in the fun!