Welcome to GWYT
Great Western Youth Theatre
PADDINGTON BEAR
23 – 25 June 2016
Giving children the confidence to perform in the spotlight for over 25 years
-
Ellie Brain – Past GWYT Member
I was a member of GWYT from Year 6 to Year 10, and I can honestly say that it was one of the best experiences of my life. Not only did I make some of my best friends in this group (to this day), but I grew in confidence and was able to express myself in a manner that I was unable to at school or in any other group I was involved with. Even now, I’m still heavily involved with theatre at university and this is a testament to the fond memories I have of performing with my GWYT family for so many years. If you’re thinking of joining this group, then do – you honestly won’t regret it!
-
Gabriel Downey – Past GWYT Member
I left GWYT 5-6 years ago, yet the memories and friends I made during my time there remain as strong as ever. Despite my complete inability to sing, all it took was one year with teaching (and some nurturing of my confidence) to find myself doing a solo song on stage. It really is the place to be if you want a fun but also memorable place to enjoy drama. I thank GWYT for everything it has taught me and the impact it has had.
-
Siobhan Ellis – Past GWYT Member
When I first started at GWYT I was a rather shy person and I wasn’t very confident around others but thanks to GWYT I have grown in confidence and shown who I really am…which is someone who is completely nuts!!
-
Bethan Clinton – Past GWYT Member
I was in GWYT for 7 years and I absolutely loved it! It provided an amazing opportunity to make new friends and sparked my love of musical theatre. There is no audition for GWYT, everyone is accepted, which I think makes the atmosphere extremely friendly and allows you to be as creative as you like!
-
Tillie O’Connell – Past GWYT Member
Great Western Youth Theatre was without a doubt the best thing I did growing up. I loved it so much, I came back to help for three years after I had left! The sessions taught me so much, not only how to perform on stage and learn drama techniques, but also grow in confidence, speech and personality outside of the group. I had so much fun every week that as soon as I left, I was already waiting for the next. I got to meet loads of like-minded people and made some of my best friends, (we’re all still just as close now as we were then). One thing that always stood out from other drama groups was that GWYT didn’t feel like school. We had freedom to input our own ideas into the plays and games, making the end goals something to be proud of. We laughed so much, it wasn’t a proper Tuesday night if your cheeks didn’t hurt because you were smiling all the time. There is no audition to get in, no scary recitals, you can decide what you do and how you do it, it’s perfect for everyone. I wish I could go back and do it all again.
Celebrating 25 years
Great Western Youth Theatre has been part of the Clevedon amateur dramatics scene for over 25 years. Our testimonials from members, past and present, shows the positive effect GWYT has had and continues to have on all involved.
Letting Children Shine
At GWYT we believe every child deserves their chance to shine. Building their confidence and offering them opportunities to grow and develop their skills in a friendly, fun, supportive environment.
Why kids and parents choose GWYT
No Auditions
GWYT has a no audition policy. We believe everyone deserves the same chance. We aim to be inclusive and no one is expected to audition to join us.
A role for everyone
We work on peoples strengths. Encouraging them to explore what they are good at and roles are given to people to help them embrace their skills.
School Year’s 6 – 10
All children school years 6 to 10 are welcome. The sessions run during term time with a end of year production in June
Build Confidence
Through team building activities, games, group songs and a variety of other activities GWYT members are encouraged to build on their abilities in a inclusive, supportive environment.
The sky is the limit
GWYT has a growing volunteer base of previous members that have been helped on their way through GCSE's, A levels and even University thanks to their time with GWYT.

Experience on a fully functioning set
The stage for the yearly production has a fully functioning light and sound system and also a dressing room with make up department.
Get in touch
Got a question or would you like more info on GWYT? Fill in the form below.
St Andrews Church Centre, Clevedon, BS21 7UE
Classes run each Tuesday from 19:00 – 21:00 term time.
-
GWYT has helped my child grow in confidence. From having one line in her first play to having the challenge of one of the main rolls in her second year she has embraced and loved the challenges thrown at her
Susan Woodford – Parent 2013 – 2016
-
My daughter hates reading but will willingly read her script! I have seen her blossom into a fully fledged DRAMA QUEEN ! ! ! ! .
Anne Ellis – Parent 2012 – 2016
-
“Being in GWYT really helped with my confidence, I definitely wouldn’t have had the confidence to audition for shows I’ve been in more recently if I hadn’t gone to GWYT! I also met some great people there, who I never would’ve come across otherwise, and who I’m still friends with now!”
Helen Norman – Past GWYT Member
-
GWYT was without a doubt one of the most enriching experiences throughout my childhood! I use to constantly waiting for Tuesday to come around, just to completely be myself, and be around such motivational people. GWYT gave me the confidence to try things I never would have before, and I had more fun than I ever thought possible, and made memories I’ll treasure for the rest of my life. When the time came that we had to leave, I was completely heartbroken to be honest, but I felt completely honoured to be part of such a wonderful group!! And if I could do it all over again now, I’d do it in a heartbeat
I can’t thank GWYT enough for all it did for me, and helped me to become the person I am today! GWYT RULES!!!!
Molly Harty – Past GWYT Member
-
Great Western Youth Theatre was without a doubt the best thing I did growing up. I loved it so much, I came back to help for three years after I had left! The sessions taught me so much, not only how to perform on stage and learn drama techniques, but also grow in confidence, speech and personality outside of the group. I had so much fun every week that as soon as I left, I was already waiting for the next. I got to meet loads of like-minded people and made some of my best friends, (we’re all still just as close now as we were then). One thing that always stood out from other drama groups was that GWYT didn’t feel like school. We had freedom to input our own ideas into the plays and games, making the end goals something to be proud of. We laughed so much, it wasn’t a proper Tuesday night if your cheeks didn’t hurt because you were smiling all the time. There is no audition to get in, no scary recitals, you can decide what you do and how you do it, it’s perfect for everyone. I wish I could go back and do it all again.
Tillie O’Connell – Past GWYT Member