Young performers invited to audition for new musicals as BYMT heads to Manchester

Budding actors, singers and dancers from Greater Manchester will have the chance to audition for a national youth theatre company when British Youth Music Theatre (BYMT) visits the city next month.

BYMT is holding in-person auditions at Hope Mill Theatre on Sunday 8 February, offering young people aged 11 to 21 the chance to join its 2026 Young Company and take part in the creation of new original musicals.

The auditions are open to anyone with a passion for theatre, regardless of experience, and are held in the form of a three-hour group workshop. Sessions will run from 10am to 1pm and 2pm to 5pm and must be booked in advance via the BYMT website.

Unlike traditional auditions, BYMT workshops are designed to be inclusive, focusing on collaboration, energy and enthusiasm. Participants will work with professional theatre directors and choreographers on the day, learning material in the room rather than preparing in advance.

Those selected will take part in a two-week residential course during the Easter or summer holidays in cities including Manchester, Birmingham, London, Exeter and Hull. The courses bring together young performers from across the UK to devise and perform entirely new musicals alongside professional creative teams.

The organisation has a strong recent history in the region, having premiered the musical Worn Out at The Lowry in Salford last summer. The show was described by I Love Manchester as “a must watch” and “full of heart and soul”.

A BYMT spokesperson said the company is seeking anyone with a passion for theatre. “We’re looking for enthusiasm, energy and a willingness to work as part of a team. You don’t need to have prior training or experience, just a love for the stage.”

To book a place or find out more, visit: https://britishyouthmusictheatre.org/auditions/for-performers/