We’re two weeks on from Macbeth closing – and we’re still catching our breath! But – we’re also still thinking about the brilliant young people who helped shape our final week of performances.
In the last week of the run, our Young Theatre Makers (YTM) stepped into the spotlight, creating and performing three original curtain raisers inspired by Shakespeare’s iconic tragedy. These 10-minute pieces opened selected performances, welcoming audiences into the world of Macbeth before the main show began.
And what a way to begin.
A bold invitation into the world of Macbeth
Led by Director Imogen Downes, alongside assistants Gabriel Kelly and Joe Northstone, our Year 7–9 and Year 10–13 groups set out to make something entirely their own.
Drawing on the themes, characters and atmosphere of Macbeth, they explored movement, sound, lighting and text to build their responses to the play.
The result was three completely distinct pieces, each one imaginative, atmospheric and full of personality.
Sharing the stage
For many of the performers, this felt significant.
They were working on the same stage, in the same week, as a professional production. That brought a real sense of focus and pride. In the words of our participants:
“It was such a cool experience to be on the stage!”
“We all worked really hard together – we were a unit and we bossed it.”
Built from their ideas
What made these curtain raisers stand out was how much they belonged to the young people who created them.
YTM gives participants ownership of the creative process, and that was clear here. From the first ideas through to performance, they worked together to shape pieces that reflected their own perspectives and creativity.
Over the past year, more than 400 young people have taken part in YTM, with over 300 performing on our professional stage . These curtain raisers felt like a natural next step. A chance to place that work right at the heart of a live production.
Confidence, creativity, and finding your voice
The impact went beyond the performances themselves.
“I feel better about myself. I feel more confident.”
“I feel like when I’m here I can really be myself.”
Comments like these speak to what YTM creates week in, week out. A space where young people can build confidence, connect with others and explore who they are through theatre.
During the curtain raisers, they shared that with hundreds of audience members.
A glimpse of what’s to come
The response to the Macbeth curtain raisers has been incredibly positive.
What started as a way to respond to participant feedback has opened up something bigger. Bringing young people’s work into our main programme in this way has real potential, both for audiences and for the young people themselves.
We are SO looking forward to seeing how this project can grow!
This production was proudly supported by Clifton College.
Posted on 15 April 2026
