Ipswich Little Theatre’s Youth Theatre program is divided into three distinct groups – Sparks, Flames, and Firebrands – each designed to support young performers at different stages of their theatrical journey.
While all groups share a strong foundation in stagecraft, collaboration, and confidence-building, each level is tailored to meet students where they are, with age-appropriate training, expectations, and performance opportunities. This structure allows participants to progress naturally as their skills, maturity, and theatrical experience grow.
Together, Sparks, Flames, and Firebrands create a clear pathway from first steps on stage through to advanced performance and production experience, all within a supportive, inclusive, and encouraging theatre environment.
Focus of All Youth Theatre Groups
Across all Youth Theatre stages, students develop both performance skills and essential interpersonal skills that support not only their work on stage, but their confidence and collaboration off stage as well.
Performance & Presence Skills
- Stage Movement and Blocking: Moving naturally and purposefully around the stage
- Vocal and Physical Control: Using posture, facial expression, and movement to communicate effectively
- Interaction: Engaging with fellow actors and the audience
- Adaptability: Responding to direction, changes, and unexpected moments
- Stage Awareness: Understanding position, safety, and spatial awareness
Soft & Interpersonal Skills
- Communication: Giving and receiving information with directors, peers, and creatives
- Collaboration & Teamwork: Working cooperatively within an ensemble
- Time Management: Balancing rehearsals, performances, and commitments
- Patience & Flexibility: Handling feedback, adapting to change, and learning from mistakes
- Confidence: Performing with assurance and presence
Applications & Placement
Places in our Youth Theatre program are limited, and applications are assessed to ensure each student is placed in the group where they are most likely to thrive.
Applications are considered based on factors such as age, experience, readiness for group work, and the specific focus of each Youth Theatre level. Our priority is creating a safe, supportive, and positive environment for all participants.
While we aim to be inclusive, there may be times when a student’s needs are beyond the current support structures of our program. In these cases, we will communicate openly with families and, where possible, discuss alternative pathways or future opportunities.
Submitting an application does not guarantee a place.
Please note: places have been allocated for all groups in 2026.
Directors: Chris Austin-Greenhill, Dior Austin-Greenhill, Josie Yarham, Artie Cowern
Duration: 90 minutes
When: Saturdays, 8:30am – 10:00am (first class 31 Jan)
Actor Cap: 15
Fees: $265 for the year or $95 upfront and $60 each following term
About Sparks
Sparks is our entry-level Youth Theatre group, designed for primary school–aged performers who are beginning their theatre journey. Sessions combine fun, age-appropriate games with structured lessons to introduce core stagecraft skills in a supportive and playful environment.
Focus Areas
- Stage areas and awareness
- Blocking and movement
- Memorisation
- Vocal training and projection
- Theatre etiquette
Performances
Sparks students participate in one full-cast performance per year, giving them the opportunity to experience rehearsal and performance as part of an ensemble.
Performance Date:
- Saturday 5 September 2026
Directors: Mack Groves, Chris Austin-Greenhill, Josie Yarham, Artie Cowan, Dylan Clevens
Duration: 2 hours
When: Saturdays, 10:30am – 12:30pm (first class 31 Jan)
Actor Cap: 15
Fees: $265 for the year or $95 upfront and $60 each following term
About Flames
Flames is our intermediate Youth Theatre group, ideal for performers who are ready to build on foundational skills and develop greater confidence, technique, and stage presence. Sessions balance energetic games with more formal training and performance preparation.
Focus Areas
- Projection and vocal strength
- Monologues and duologues
- Characterisation
- Stage presence
- Theatre etiquette
Performances
Flames operates on a two-year rotating performance cycle, ensuring students experience a variety of performance styles:
- Year A:
- Theatre Sports Performance
- Full-Cast Play
- Year B:
- Monologue & Duologue Showcase
- Full-Cast Play
2026 Performance Dates:
- Showcase: Saturday 9 May 2026
- Play: Saturday 17 October 2026
Directors: Kate Hoepner, Sam Hoepner, Jess Pitman, Ollie McDonald, Mack Groves and Dylan Clevens
Duration: 2 hours
When: Wednesdays, 5:00pm – 7:00pm (first class 28 Jan)
Actor Cap: 20
Fees: $265 for the year or $95 upfront and $60 each following term
About Firebrands
Firebrands is our senior Youth Theatre group, designed for experienced performers seeking advanced training and substantial performance opportunities. This group focuses on professionalism, artistic growth, and working collaboratively within larger-scale productions.
Focus Areas
- Advanced projection and vocal control
- Monologues and duologues
- Character development
- Stage presence and performance discipline
- Theatre etiquette and rehearsal professionalism
Performances
Firebrands present two major performance seasons each year, offering extensive rehearsal and performance experience across multiple venues.
2026 Performance Dates:
- ILT Main Stage: 12, 13, 19 & 20 June 2026
- Jean Pratt Building: 16 & 17 October 2026
For any questions about the Youth Theatre program or the application process, please contact the Youth Theatre team at youth@ilt.org.au.