- Events centered around the theme "Dream. Dare. Do." at East Lindfield Community Hall.
- Features an Improv Workshop led by professional actor Nicolas Hiatt./li>
- Includes a Q&A with Ryan Ennis, the first autistic playwright of "Drizzle Boy."
- Proceeds are reinvested to enhance arts access for young people of all abilities.
This Youth Week, Marian Street Theatre for Young People (MSTYP) brought a unique experience to Sydney’s North Shore, an inspiring day dedicated to encouraging young individuals to dream bigger, take bold steps, and achieve.
On 17 April, the East Lindfield Community Hall buzzed with energy during three free events centred around this year’s theme, “Dream. Dare. Do.”
Organised by MSTYP, a not-for-profit theatre company and drama school with a rich history of over 50 years in the Ku-ring-gai community, the program provided a wonderful opportunity for young people to immerse themselves in creativity, build connections, and embrace courage.
The day kicked off with an Improv Workshop led by the talented Nicolas Hiatt, a professional actor renowned for his work in both theatre and film. Aimed at teenagers, this engaging session encouraged participants to embrace spontaneity, think on their feet, and build confidence through the joy of play, an experience beyond the confines of textbooks.
“Confidence isn’t something that just appears,” shared Giselle Beale, Chair of MSTYP. “It’s something that’s nurtured over time, through creative risk-taking, teamwork, and the bravery to let yourself be seen. Youth Week provides a remarkable chance to create environments where young individuals can discover who they are and what they’re capable of.”
Ryan Ennis hosted a Q&A session, the acclaimed playwright of Drizzle Boy, which proudly won the Queensland Premier’s Drama Award for 2022-2023.
As well as being the first Australian play written by an autistic playwright about an autistic protagonist. Brought to life by MSTYP’s Access Class and Performance Ensemble, the production beautifully explores themes of identity, connection, and belonging, with remarkable warmth and authenticity.
The Q&A offered young individuals a unique opportunity to engage directly with a working theatre maker. Ryan shared valuable insights into his creative process and the diverse pathways that can lead to a career in the arts.
MSTYP expressed its heartfelt gratitude to the Ku-ring-gai Council, the Creative Advisory Committee chaired by Wendy Blaxland, and the passionate teaching artists and young performers whose hard work made the day a success. As a not-for-profit organization, MSTYP reinvests all proceeds from its programs to enhance access to the arts for young people from diverse backgrounds and abilities throughout the North Shore.
Find out more about the Marian Street Theatre for Young People
