National Youth Music Theatre brings three extraordinary musicals to Birmingham Hippodrome
The National Youth Music Theatre (NYMT) is bringing three exciting productions to Birmingham Hippodrome this August to showcase young talent and push the boundaries of music theatre.
From the vibrant energy of Fame: The Musical (7-9 Aug) to the fantastical world of Lightning Boy (21-23 Aug), a brand-new musical, and the highly anticipated UK premiere of Tuck Everlasting (14-16 Aug), this season shines a spotlight on the NYMT company.
Talent from across the nation, ranging from ages 10 to 23, will come together to showcase their skills in these groundbreaking performances. Additionally, NYMT is proud to share that it has recently welcomed a record-breaking 1,200 auditionees to its audition workshops, further highlighting the growing passion and talent among young people eager to be part of the world of music theatre.
Artistic Director at NYMT, Chris Cuming, said: “This year, as we look ahead to our 50th celebrations, we’ve chosen a theme that’s very close to our hearts at NYMT: family. Our young company members and alumni often say that being part of NYMT feels like being part of a family — and we couldn’t agree more. Through this wonderful programme of work, we’re exploring the full spectrum of family life: the good, the complicated, the challenging, and the joyful stories that shape our experiences.
“I’m incredibly proud to be bringing this programme to the brilliant city of Birmingham, and delighted to be working so closely with the Hippodrome to share our passion for new musicals — including a UK premiere and a brand-new British musical.”
This upcoming season at Birmingham Hippodrome further reinforces NYMT’s commitment to nurturing exceptional young talent, while celebrating both the rich heritage and the vibrant future of musical theatre. The strengthened partnership with the Hippodrome marks a significant milestone in NYMT’s vision: to champion fresh voices from all backgrounds and showcase the powerful role of young talent in shaping the industry of tomorrow.
Creative Director at Birmingham Hippodrome, Chris Sudworth, said: “It’s wonderful to welcome NYMT for their first full season in the Patrick Studio at Birmingham Hippodrome. With an even clearer focus on new musicals and supporting a wider range of creative voices to progress their craft on and offstage, we’re excited for this summer’s programme and the possibilities for the future in this great city.”
Fame: The Musical will be directed by Jonathan O’Boyle, with musical direction by Alex Bellamy and choreography by Lauren Stroud.
The UK premiere of Tuck Everlasting will be directed by Richard Fitch, with musical direction by Josh Cottell and choreography by Simon Hardwick.
New musical Lightning Boy will be directed by Kate Golledge, with musical direction and orchestrations by Lee Freeman, and choreography by Aimee Leigh.