Cast Youth Theatre has expanded its programs and reach thanks to generous support from One Call Insurance, which has enabled greater inclusivity and a more diverse community within the Youth Theatre at Cast. This support has made a meaningful difference to Cast Youth Theatre’s ability to engage young people who may have previously faced barriers to participating in the arts.
Increasing Inclusivity in the Arts
One Call Insurance’s support has made Cast Youth Theatre accessible to nine additional young people through bursary placements, ensuring financial barriers do not prevent access. An Access Support Worker has also joined the team, allowing young people to fully participate in Cast’s Bright Lights group for young people aged 14-16 with additional needs and learning disabilities, where they receive the support needed to thrive in a creative environment.
Building a Diverse Community
Cast Youth Theatre now engages 160 young people from various backgrounds, including 31 who identify as deaf or disabled and 20 from non-white ethnic origins. With One Call’s support, Cast Youth Theatre has created a space where young people of all backgrounds can feel welcomed, valued, and encouraged to participate.
Enhanced Programming and Skills Development
Thanks to this support, Cast has recruited an additional Group Facilitator to help maintain the quality of its sessions. The enhanced staffing ensures that young participants benefit from focused attention and a comprehensive arts education that builds confidence, performance skills, and teamwork.
This impact has been felt by participants and their families:
“The Cast youth theatre team have been an absolute godsend to my family. A little more than a year later and people who meet [my child] would never know that they suffer from anxiety. They are now so confident in themselves, [they are] a bubbly and happy child. I cannot put into words what a wonderful team Youth theatre has, thank you so much for what you do for our children.”
Youth Theatre Parent
“This privilege has been a life-changing opportunity. It has developed social and performance skills, boosted confidence, and is always the highlight of the week. To be welcomed into an amazing space encouraged to be creative and inspired by adults that she looks up to and aspires to be like, whilst among friends is just wonderful. The performance opportunities are lifelong memories.”
Youth Theatre Parent
Find out more about Cast Youth Theatre
