A GROUP of youngsters will make their acting debut in the first production of a new theatre group based in Catchgate, near Stanley.

Busy Ape Arts Youth Theatre is staging a performance of one group piece and several monologues by young people aged eight to 13.

People and Other Animals will take place on Thursday, July 7, at 7pm at The Phoenix Arts Centre, Harelaw.

It is the result of a ten-week pilot funded by The Children's Fund and supported by The Derwentside Partnership.

The programme is designed to introduce youngsters to the world of theatre and performance.

Busy Ape Arts plans to continue the scheme as a three-year project, to enable young people to grow up benefiting from the skills and challenges offered by the theatre.

Company director Abi Barker said: "Most of the young people involved in this project have never done any acting or performing before.

"But they have really worked hard and it's amazing how much confidence they have gained even in a few weeks.

"We're very proud of what they have achieved in such a short time and hope that we can continue the project to further develop the talent and potential these young people have shown they have.

"The show includes a number of monologues, some of which are quite well-known comedy radio sketches, and will be full of humour and a great night out for all the family."

Tickets for the show are available from Busy Ape Arts on (01207) 282228 and cost £2 or £1 concessions.

Published: 29/06/2005