MAD Youth Theatre gets a new home
DUNDALK’S Mad About Drama (M.A.D) Youth Theatre, which has being going from strength to strength since launching in The Spirit Store almost six years ago, has a new home in Earl Street.
‘ The youth theatre has been growing from strength to strength expanding their programming to children drama workshops, collaborating with community organisations and creating international bonds,’ says Kwaise Boyce.’ With the increase of membership and artistic programming, providing the right environment is important for stimulating creativity, new opportunities and a catalyst for the community engaging in the arts.’
Their new space in Earl Street ‘is actually more than just a ‘space’, we consider it a home,’ he continues.
‘It’s a place where creativity happens more than two hours a week. It will be a place to generate ideas, nurture creativity and be a safe place to take risks.’
He notes that the new space, which can be accessed through the archway between Magee’s Pharmacy and Dealz, also pro- vides them with ‘ the potential to spark collaboration with existing arts organisations/ groups and a expose members to more training opportunities in the arts.
Having a space to call their own as opposed to renting a hall gives the company the security of not having to worry about finding a new venue when the lease runs out.
‘ It is also key when developing the programme for the year and allows for new ideas and opportunities to arise.
He says that the group will be better positioned to increase their involvement and engagement with the community, artists and facilitators. ‘ This level of contact will give the young people a platform to further develop their skills, build aware- ness of youth arts and share their skills and passion with the wider community.’
MAD Youth Theatre will host an open day early next month when they will invite the public to go along and visit this new space.
They will also stage a mini drama festival, showcasing a series of ten minute plays of different genres over an hour.