30 April 2026
Hoping to inspire the next generation of storytellers, performers and creatives, Kirribilli’s Ensemble Theatre has announced the establishment of a new Youth Studio. The project will provide a space for young people to explore theatre and performance.
Alongside the theatre’s upcoming inaugural Winter School Holiday Drama Workshop, the Youth Studio will be an inclusive hub where young people are encouraged to be bold, take risks, and sharpen their craft for storytelling.
Ensemble Theatre’s Education and Community Engagement Lead, Sophie Kelly, who developed the initiative, said, “At its heart, EYS is about championing a passion for theatre and supporting the next wave of theatre makers and theatre lovers. These workshops give young people the opportunity to learn from professional artists, build confidence, and experience the unique thrill of performing on the Ensemble stage in front of family and friends. It’s about creating a meaningful first connection to theatre that can stay with them for years to come.”
Kelly brings a wealth of experience having served as the Assistant Director for Ensemble Productions including The One and Photograph 51. Additionally, she was the Understudy Director for Mark Kilmurry’s productions of A Doll’s House and Boxing Day BBQ.
Workshops will start this July with areas including playful, beginner worker shops like “Animal Antics” and “Witches, Warlocks and Wizards! Oh My!” For younger, early primary school age children. Week two will focus more on late primary, early secondary students covering topics like character development workshop ‘Friend or Foe?” And cinema focussed sessions “Hollywood Heroes”.
Artistic director Mark Kilmurry said, “Ensemble has always been a place where artists are nurtured, and Ensemble Youth Studio continues that legacy for a new generation. I’m delighted to see young people discover their creativity, confidence, and passion for storytelling through this program.”