RJC Dance and Leeds Playhouse wrap up year of creativity and growth with Youth Theatre

As the curtain closes on another year for the RJCD Playhouse Youth Theatre, we’re taking a moment to celebrate everything our young performers have achieved.

Led by Licie Wood from Leeds Playhouse and supported by our own Kiran Kumar, this year’s Youth Theatre group have grown in confidence, creativity and community spirit. It’s been a joy to watch such talented young people explore their voices, ideas and talents week after week.

From powerful performances to unforgettable trips, this year’s members have experienced many meaningful moments:

In December 2024, the group performed their Windrush-inspired piece Par Avion as part of the RJC Dance Annual Showcase, an insightful and heart-warming play. In early 2025, they took a trip to Leeds Playhouse to see The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, an inspiring visit that sparked imagination and self-belief. And in July 2025, they rounded off their year with a powerful self-devised play, Forward to the Future, performed alongside the Middleton Youth Theatre group and Leeds Playhouse 8-10’s, on the iconic Quarry stage at Leeds Playhouse.

We’re proud to celebrate five amazing young people who are graduating from the group to pursue new creative paths:

Amara, Serayah and Marisha are moving on to join the 11–13s Youth Theatre group at Leeds Playhouse. Marisha reflected on her time at RJC Dance, saying:

“I learnt how to perform, be on stage, developed my confidence and made new friendships. RJC Dance has helped me express my creativity. My advice to anyone thinking about joining is: do it, it’s great! It’s fun, you’re accepted for who you are and you become more confident.”

Serayah will also continue her journey with us at Shahck Out Thursdays, while Zylah, who’s also graduating, will remain at RJC Dance as part of Shahck Out Saturdays.

Alfred, who joined the group in 2023, is moving on to pursue drama at school. Reflecting on his experience, he shared:

“My confidence and relationship skills have been helped by attending the theatre group at RJC Dance.”

Alfred’s mum added:

“He has so enjoyed attending sessions at RJC Dance, it really has been transformative for him and helped him build confidence. Thank you for providing such amazing opportunities for young people locally. It really is so important.”

Youth Theatre at RJC Dance will resume in September 2025, and we’re already looking forward to welcoming new faces alongside the existing members! Sessions take place every Friday, 4:30–6:00pm, and are open to anyone aged 9–12 years old.

If you’re interested in joining or know someone who might be, click here to learn more.