Wrexham youth theatre cast stage Queen-inspired musical

Theatr Yr Ifanc, based at the Stiwt Theatre in Rhos, wowed with four performances over three days with WE WILL ROCK YOU Young@Part.

The musical, inspired by and featuring the songs of British rock legends Queen, saw performances by both the younger and older sections of the theatre group.

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Started in 1990, the ethos of independent Theatr Yr Ifanc is community, a sentiment echoed by its artistic director Laura Griffiths, from Caergwrle.

The former Ysgol y Grango performing arts teacher said: "This is my first show since taking over in September 2022. It's nice to show people what we're doing, what it's like to be a part of it and the opportunities it offers.

Theatr Yr Ifanc perform WE WILL ROCK YOU Young@Part at the Stiwt Theatre. Photo: Rachel Hale Photography

"This has been a really big show. There are 57 children in the cast and we have a full span of ages, some of our leads are only nine and they're amazing.

"With costume and set design, we've really gone all out to give the kids the opportunity of as close to a professional show as possible.

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"The whole ethos is community, and supporting children from the area, Wrexham and the outskirts. We're there to support them throughout the years."

One cast member, 16-year-old Milly Hale, from Farndon, has been a member of the youth group since 2017. Younger sister Phoebe, eight, is also a member.

Milly Hale (left) with Theatr Yr Ifanc during WE WILL ROCK YOU Young@Part at the Stiwt Theatre. Photo: Rachel Hale Photography

Milly, a student at Bishop Heber High School in Malpas, added: "I've done about four shows, I really love performing, being able to become a character that's not myself. I'd love to continue performing in the future. It's a lovely community that's in the group.

"It's a really great theatre group, and it feels like a family and everyone is so supportive."

Theatr Yr Ifanc perform WE WILL ROCK YOU Young@Part at the Stiwt Theatre. Photo: Rachel Hale Photography

Theatr Yr Ifanc will be running their summer school at the end of July, and youngsters can also register to join in September. Members, who range from school years 3 to 13, have the chance take part in an exchange to Germany in October. For more information visit: theatr-ifanc-rhos1990.co.uk

• WE WILL ROCK YOU Young@Part is a story and script by Ben Elton, featuring the music and lyrics of Queen. It is presented through special arrangement with and all authorised performance materials are supplied by Theatrical Rights Worldwide.