The new head of a young actors group wants to help fill the hole left by the removal of arts education in the borough’s schools.
Isobel Smith, started as the new CEO of Young Actors Theatre Islington (YATI) at the end of October. She plans to push forward an outreach project, emphasising the importance of YATI’s role in the community.
YATI is a charity located in Barnsbury, having three elements: local theatre, drama school and professional agency. It provides 180 hours of acting education per week for children and young people aged 4 to 25.
Andy Serkis, director and actor, is the chairman of YATI, and Daniel Kaluuya, Asa Butterfield and Ella Purnell were educated at this institution.
YATI runs two courses: a regular one in teaching art education to children and a professional foundation course in partnership with Guildhall School. Both courses are cheaper than general acting courses.
Smith said: “our focus is giving the best possible arts experiences of performing for children across North London, particularly those who experienced economic deprivation or from marginalised communities. While we charge fees for some of our classes and courses, most of the fees are either partially or completely subsidised.”
Smith has 17 years of experience in arts leadership, working at institutions such as the National Theatre and Jacksons Lane Arts Centre. She notes that institutions like YATI are significant to the community.
“Art education is vital because children can learn how to work together and express themselves effectively. All those skills are beneficial for whatever they do in their future,” she said.
“But all arts-related things have been taken out of the school’s curriculum by the conservative government. So, we are more and more fulfilling the role that government used to offer, such as building community again in a therapeutic way, especially after the Pandemic.”
She is developing a management plan to support residents and young students. “I hope to do outreach projects, launch new classes, and create a theatre company for our alumni,” she explained.
YATI will perform “The Snow Queen” from the 15th to the 18th for Christmas. About 40 young actors selected through auditions will be on stage.
To find out more, visit the group’s website https://youngactors.org.uk/
