National Youth Theatre - History

History

The National Youth Theatre was founded in 1956 by Michael Croft, aided by Kenneth Spring. Croft had been responsible for producing a number of school plays at Alleyn's Boys' School and following his departure, he was approached by a number of pupils from the school to continue working together on productions in school holidays.

The first production of Henry V created something of a stir. At the time, it was unusual for young actors to be performing Shakespeare and this innovative venture attracted the attention of a curious public. Amongst the first audiences were Richard Burton and Ralph Richardson and being so taken by the achievement, Ralph Richardson immediately agreed to become the company's first President. The organisation evolved rapidly throughout the UK involving young people on a National basis.

Michael Croft died in 1986 and was succeeded by Edward Wilson as Director. Building on Croft's successful vision, Wilson took the company forward into new territory, increasing its range of activities and reinforcing its approach to technical production values. Wilson also recognised the opportunity to extend the organisation to more disadvantaged young people and started the first Outreach department in 1989, working initially with young offenders and gradually widening the opportunities to other socially excluded groups. Wilson also secured the organisation's current Headquarters building in North London, which now houses all of its production facilities including rehearsal rooms, scenery and costume workshops, sound studio, photographic dark room and administration.

Edward Wilson left the company in 2004 when Sid Higgins (Executive Director), John Hoggarth and Paul Roseby (Artistic Directors) took over. Since then, they have built on the legacy inherited from Michael Croft and Edward Wilson, and the organisation has continued to evolve, expanding its opportunities to young people from a more diverse background through a wider range of theatrical projects and collaborations.

John Hoggarth stepped down in 2007 and Paul Roseby continues as the organisation's Artistic Director.

In 2010 National Youth Theatre moved administrative offices from Holloway Road to the Woolyard on Bermondsey Street and Sid Higgins stepped down as Executive Director and was replaced by James Mackenzie-Blackman.

James Mackenzie-Blackman left in January 2012 and Paul Roseby was appointed as Artistic Director and CEO.