A POPULAR youth theatre is to extend into the Yorkshire Dales to give more young people the chance to learn behind the scenes skills.

The Georgian Theatre Royal, in Richmond, has taken over the Youth Theatre in Wensleydale, formerly known as WeSPA.

Led by professional actor Susan Hedges, who has run classes in Wensleydale for three years, the classes will be held at the Drama Studio, in Leyburn.

Students will study drama skills, confidence and performance techniques and will be given the opportunity to perform on the stage at the Georgian, the UK’s oldest working theatre.

As well as performance skills students will also learn backstage and lighting design from the Georgian Theatre’s in-house technician Tony Wilcocks.

Tutor Susan Hedges said: “The Wensleydale drama students will be working towards a new production to be staged in the Georgian Theatre Royal in Summer 2012 and spaces are available for both junior and senior school age students.

“How many young people get such a chance to perform in such an amazing and beautiful theatre? I’m really excited about running these classes as the theatre’s flagship outreach group.”

Classes take place every Wednseday in term time. Junior students rehearse weekly between 5pm and 6.30pm while the seniors rehearse at 6.30pm–8pm.

There is no need to book in advance and parents can bring their child on the night to sign up.

For more information call the theatre on 01748-823710.