Doors open at 9.45am for a 10am start, with collection at 4pm. 

While participants attend the day independently, we understand some adults may wish to stay nearby. Adults are welcome to enjoy a cosy cuppa in the Festival Theatre café while the day is underway. 

£70 per participant. 

We believe cost should never be a barrier. If your young person would benefit from a bursary place, please contact engage@capitaltheatres.com – our team will be very happy to help. 

You’ll receive an e-ticket for each place booked. A responsible adult will then be asked to complete a Participant Information Form so we can gather key details such as emergency contacts and any support needs.

This helps us create the best possible experience for every participant. 

Participants should bring a packed lunch each day. An afternoon snack, water and juice will be provided. 

If cost is a challenge, we are very happy to arrange a lunch box – simply let us know in advance. 

The course takes place in the Studio Theatre, which has its own entrance on Potterrow. Participants may also visit the Festival Theatre throughout the day, which is connected internally.  You can read more about the venues here. 

Courses are intentionally kept small, with a maximum of 16 participants, allowing our artists to provide a supportive and engaging experience. 

We are committed to creating an environment where young people feel welcome, supported, and inspired. Our staff are trained to support a wide range of needs, including learning and physical disabilities, autism, and neurodivergence, and we adapt activities wherever reasonably possible. 

If you would like to discuss your young person’s needs in advance, we warmly encourage you to contact us – we are always happy to help you decide whether the day feels like the right fit. 

When considering the experience, it may be helpful to note: 

• Each day lasts approximately 6 hours. 

• Participants work collaboratively in group settings. 

• The programme includes practical workshops, backstage tours, and creative ensemble work. 

• Many participants attend independently, though gentle icebreakers help build comfort and connection. Young people are always free to contribute at a level that feels right for them. 

If attending with a friend would provide reassurance, bursary places may be available – please get in touch to discuss options. 

Each day has its own theme, but the overall structure stays the same. 

Mornings are spent in hands-on workshops led by industry professionals. These sessions explore a range of theatre careers, from business and design to technical production and performance. 

Lunch usually takes place around 1pm. 

Afternoons are dedicated to making your own work. Participants split into two groups, each supported by a professional artist, to create original performance pieces. 

Regular comfort and snack breaks are built into the day, and participants can take time in a quiet space whenever they need. 

On the final day, family and friends will be invited to an informal sharing of the work created during the week, usually around 3pm. Full details will be emailed to bookers two weeks before the course begins. 

All sessions are led by experienced engagement artists and supported by our team. A First Aid–trained staff member is always present in the building. 

Young people are encouraged to take part fully, but participation is never forced. 

A quiet breakout space is available throughout the day for anyone who may need time away from activity. Our team will check in sensitively and can contact parents or guardians if required. 

Responsible adults should remain reachable for the duration of the session in case of emergency, and should be willing to return to the theatre if requested. 

We ask all participants to behave respectfully towards one another and our staff so that everyone can enjoy a positive and creative experience. 

Participants are welcome to keep their phones with them. We will advise if photography is restricted in certain areas and ask that no images are taken of other participants without consent. Our artists appreciate phones being kept out of sight during workshops. 

During registration, we will request image permission for any photography captured for marketing purposes. Participants may choose to step out of images at any time. 

Comfortable clothing suitable for practical activity is recommended, along with sensible, closed-toe shoes.