Young performers across Oxfordshire are being invited to audition for a fully supported musical production at New Theatre Oxford, as the venue launches a new partnership with Scott’s Performing Arts.
The collaboration will give children and young people aged 8–18 the opportunity to rehearse and perform Fame Jr., the high-energy stage adaptation set in New York’s High School of Performing Arts, on the theatre’s main stage. Performers of all experience levels — from first-timers to seasoned young actors — are encouraged to audition.
Successful applicants will work within a professional theatre environment, guided by industry practitioners throughout rehearsals and performance week.
The initiative marks the first time New Theatre Oxford has supported a project of this scale specifically focused on nurturing local young talent, underlining its commitment to inspiring the next generation of performers and theatre-makers.
Founded in 2022, Scott’s Performing Arts is led by director Emily Scott, a musical theatre performer, choreographer and teacher.
The organisation was established with a mission to create as many performance opportunities as possible for young people and to ensure, in its words, that “everyone gets the spotlight they truly deserve”.
Since its first showcase at New Theatre Oxford in 2023, the group has returned annually and welcomed more than 850 young performers to the stage.
Auditions and rehearsals will take place at New Theatre Oxford — a venue that has previously hosted renowned figures including Laurence Olivier, Ian McKellen, Miriam Margolyes, Patti Smith and Queen.
A number of bursaries and scholarships will be available, ensuring access to the programme is based on talent and enthusiasm rather than background.
Rehearsals will run from Monday 10 August to Friday 14 August, with the final performance taking place on Saturday 15 August at 5.00pm — offering participants the chance to stage a full musical production in a professional setting.
Together, New Theatre Oxford and Scott’s Performing Arts say they aim to create an inclusive, confidence-building experience rooted in collaboration, creativity and community.
Further information and audition registration details are available at scottsperformingarts.co.uk/workshops/
