Birmingham Hippodrome is looking for the next cohort of people aged 14 to 22 for its young advocates programme.
The scheme, which began in 2021, is open to young people from Birmingham and the West Midlands who have an interest in the arts and a passion to make change. Since it was formed, the group has joined forces with the Hippodrome team to shape the organisation’s work with and for young people.
As well as helping to programme and produce events for young people, the successful applicants receive training, mentoring and access to a range of different opportunities within the arts industry.
Mathilde Petford, head of community and talent development at the Hippodrome, said, “our first cohort of young advocates have become an integral part of the Hippodrome. This programme offers young people a platform to have their voices heard and opinions valued while developing their skills and confidence to ensure more young people see a career in the arts and creative industries as a viable option.”
Radz, a member of the young advocates, added, “you receive an abundance of experiences to add to your portfolio as you grow up and find your role within theatre. All of us would agree that our confidence has grown immensely since joining and it has really helped to develop our public-speaking abilities.”
The programme is free and sessions run fortnightly on a Wednesday evening, with some weekend sessions. An open online information session will take place on Wednesday 9 and 16 November at 6PM, with the deadline for applications being Wednesday 30 November. There will also be a relaxed opportunity to meet the team and see the Hippodrome on Saturday 12 November at 3PM.
Applicants will be invited to attend a workshop session on Wednesday 7 December, with the final group members selected by Friday 16 December.
Further information is available at the Birmingham Hippodrome web site.