Marlowe Theatre Performance Ensemble (14-17yrs)

Participants follow a three-year curriculum that develops performance and theatre-making skills through a range of creative processes. The programme begins with ensemble devising, progresses to scripted performance, and culminates in the development and presentation of newly commissioned writing.

Each year culminates in a studio production, created and performed in collaboration with professional directors, designers and members of the Marlowe Theatre team.

Ensemble members are expected to engage fully with rehearsals, contribute to a collaborative creative process and commit to the programme alongside their other responsibilities. The ensemble provides experience of sustained rehearsal processes, performance development and working within a professional theatre environment.

There is no formal audition process – participants are invited to join from other youth company pathways when they are identified as ready for the commitment, collaborative process and creative opportunities involved in the ensemble. Readiness is discussed collectively by the Learning and Participation team and may include consideration of engagement, development, wellbeing and commitment over time.

Where demand exceeds available places, the organisation uses a contextual priority framework to improve equitable access for young people who may face structural barriers to participation. Factors may include local postcode data, school context, and optional demographic information. No single factor guarantees a place, and allocations are made using consistent and transparent criteria.

All Youth Company members benefit from discounted tickets to selected shows at the Marlowe Theatre and will have opportunities to join supervised theatre trips throughout the academic year.