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“We’re gonna change the world” - young peoples’ performing arts specialist prepares for Royal Albert Hall

Theatretrain, the performing arts specialist that provides theatre training for young people, has completed rehearsals and is putting the final touches to their annual spectacular event this weekend September (17th) at the Royal Albert Hall.

‘We’re Gonna Change The World’ is its 100th large-scale production (their 12th at the iconic Royal Albert Hall) and will see young performers from across the UK taking part aged from 4-18.

Now in its 30th year (Covid hiatus paused activity) Theatretrain gives young people the space to learn key theatre skills in dance, singing and acting.

It was founded by Kevin Dowsett, who brings together 50 years of outstanding performing arts experience to teach children the fundamentals of theatre in a vibrant, welcoming space, delivered through the Theatretrain Local Company network across the UK.

There are over 80 of them, all run by skilled, qualified and experienced performing arts professionals with a passion for supporting young people with an interest in the arts. Children from across these local companies have been practising their lines, rehearsing their moves and sharpening their vocals as they prepare for their big moment performing in a large-scale, professional production - many for the first time.

Founder and artistic director of Theatretrain, Kevin Dowsett, outlines the show’s concept: “Only Theatretrain would put Percy Faith’s ‘Theme from a Summer Place’ next to David Guetta’s ‘Titanium’ or ‘Happy Together’ by the Turtles with ‘Beautiful’ by Christina Aguliera!

“This show came about because we asked our students, their parents and their teachers what they think is wrong with the world. We received 50 pages of A4 jam packed with ideas!

“So out of that we built a show that looks at the problems of young people and the world but more importantly what young people can do to fix it.”

Theatretrain’s approach ensures a crossover between all singing, all dancing and all acting. It also means a large orchestra, a massive 800 strong choir and a powerful story told in the arena.

Theatretrain prides itself on being the only company who can put 100s of young people in a show, have them all on stage for 80% of the time and make them all as important as everyone else? How do they do that?

Kevin concludes; “It is simple enough. We’ve spent 30 years and 99 shows finding out how best to do it. Now, we have the concept, the music, the moves, the motivation and of course, the performers. It’s time to do it. It’s time to change the world.”

For more information on Theatretrain or for tickets, click here.

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