YOUNGSTERS are being offered the chance to develop their talent at workshops being run by Durham's Gala Theatre.

From May 29 to June 2, the theatre will run sessions called What I Did in the Holidays!, the first of a series of drama workshops for 12 to 16-year-olds, led by experienced theatre professionals.

The week will end with a performance on the Friday of work generated by the group, based on ideas and scenarios they have come up with.

Gala director Simon Stallworthy said: "I first got involved in theatre through a school holiday youth theatre group at my local theatre.

"It was an incredible experience working creatively with a new bunch of people, outside the school environment, and it opened my eyes to all sorts of new possibilities.

"No experience is necessary, but the week will particularly suit young people interested in performing, perhaps having done something similar at school.

"It will be intensive so children will need to be prepared to try different things and join in with a range of activities based on improvisations.''

The children will work in two groups, for school years eight and nine, and ten and 11, with three workshop leaders and three assistants.

They must be able to attend the whole week, which costs £37.50, and the sessions will run from 9.30am to 3.30pm.