Overview
We offer a nurturing, creative space for young people to explore and develop their individual talents and skills needed to fulfil their full potential.
Richard Burton Youth Company
The Richard Burton Youth Company (RBYC) is the new flagship youth theatre and training programme at Royal Welsh of Music & Drama for aspiring young creatives aged 17-20 years.
The company will be made up of a small group of actors, musical theatre performers and theatre makers who will undergo a year-long training programme with lots of performance opportunities. Working alongside industry professionals and current RWCMD tutors, you will take part in workshops and creative projects providing you with the skills and experiences needed to enter higher level training in the creative industries.
About the course
This course offers you a combination of skills classes alongside rehearsals for performance projects that you will share with audiences at the end of each term.
Auditions
The audition will begin with a 45-minute group workshop to give you the opportunity to demonstrate your ability to work as part of a company. You will be auditioned in a small group of no more than 10 people. We want our students to be:
- Positive
- creative
- generous
- inclusive
Following the workshop, you will be asked to present one speech to the audition panel and to the other members of your audition group. The speech should be no longer than two minutes and your interpretation will be re-directed by the panel.
Those specialising in Musical Theatre will also have to sing an unaccompanied song of your choosing.
We also give you the following advice:
- Read the whole play, get to know the characters carefully and make sure you learn the speech thoroughly.
- Choose a speech by characters that are similar in age to you.
- Avoid using an accent other than your own, unless you are absolutely secure in it.
- Avoid telephone speeches.
- Do not use props.
Wear appropriate clothing which will allow you to move easily and comfortably.
Throughout your time with us the panel will seek to put you at ease and to make the experience an enjoyable and constructive one. Although it will not be possible for parents/guardians/friends to accompany you in the audition room itself, they are welcome to wait for you in main reception. You will receive notification of the result of your audition by email.
Fees & financial support
We are committed to giving every young person aged 7-20 with a passion for theatre, the opportunity to benefit from the specialist drama training delivered by RWCMD, regardless of experience or financial means.
Thanks to the support of many friends and supporters of the College, all of our students can apply for a means-tested bursary which can help pay fees and may cover up to 100% of the total costs. We place great importance on making our courses accessible to all young people who have a genuine interest in theatre, with over 50% of current students receiving financial assistance.
Richard Burton Youth Company fees 2023/24
£606 a term (£1,818 a year)
