Aspiring actors, dancers and musicians are invited to audition for Cayman National Cultural Foundation’s (CNCF’s) Young at Arts® (YAA) Summer Theatre Arts Intensive, which trains young artists in the practical disciplines of performing arts.

The six week programme is supported by Butterfield. Participants ages 14-22 will receive instruction from qualified performing arts instructors and practitioners in drama, music/voice, dance and technical theatre. Guest artists also visit the programme to work with students; past guests have included Grace Gealey, Inika Pierre and Melanie Ebanks.

Alyssa McLaughlin, a past participant of the programme felt the programme offered a unique experience for young artists. “It was a really great experience, unlike any other I’ve ever had, unlike any other on the island. I’ve always had a love for theatre and acting and I think it’s a really great opportunity for people who are interested in learning the ins and outs of the ‘job’. I would like to encourage others to participate in this program in the future. There is so much more to learn than one might realise and, even if you are not sure that you’ll like theatre or acting, you never know what interesting discoveries you might make in the process.”

Auditions will take place on Saturday 28 May, starting at 10 a.m., at the Harquail Theatre,

and all students must contact CNCF to book a time slot. Students must prepare a memorised monologue, one to three minutes in length, as well as a dance, or song, or piece of music that will be played on an instrument. In addition performers must be prepared to take direction on stage when asked by adjudicators. Call backs will take place if required. Students will be advised within one week of auditioning if they have been selected.The Cayman National Cultural Foundation will be offering a total of three scholarships for exceptional performers who are in need of financial assistance. The YAA Intensive will begin 5 July and ends with a weekend of shows 5 – 7 August. For more on the programme or to book an audition, send an email to [email protected] or call 949-5477.

Photo caption: Photo by CNCF

1. Participants perform on stage
2. A young girl auditions for the programme
3. Past participates of the YAA programme