The Minack Theatre Inspires Young People in Cornwall

Everyone knows the Minack as a major attraction for visitors to Cornwall, but many people are unaware that the theatre also creates and funds an extensive programme of creative arts opportunities under the title Taking Part.

From small beginnings 10 years ago, Taking Part now provides transformative performing arts opportunities to thousands of young people across Cornwall, particularly focusing on under-served and disadvantaged communities.

"We believe the performing arts should be accessible to all, and our aim is to give every child in Cornwall the opportunity to engage with the performing arts and express themselves creatively" said John Brolly, Associate Director of the Minack Theatre. "Our Taking Part programme goes beyond traditional theatre education – we're actively working to break down barriers and bring creative opportunities directly to those who need them most."

Taking Part encompasses multiple innovative initiatives:

Working with Schools

The Minack works closely with schools throughout West Cornwall, delivering workshops, projects and mini-festivals, most at no cost to schools or participants. Activities include explorations of Shakespeare culminating in performances on the Minack stage and an annual combined schools musical project involving hundreds of students. 

Professional Training for a Future in the Arts

The theatre's flagship Academies provide intensive training for young people in acting, musical theatre and technical skills. Students receive practical training and talks from theatre professionals about working in the industry.

Taking Opportunities into the Community

Not everyone would find it easy to travel to the Minack, so some programmes are delivered in the community.

Rising Stars is a free youth theatre for age 8-16 created and run by the Minack. Based in Penzance, it performs an annual musical theatre production in the town. Rising Stars currently has 100 members, many of whom travelled to Plymouth this summer to see Hamilton. For some, it was their first major theatre experience. The trip was free to participants, supported by Chris Nicholls Ltd of Penzance.

Crabwalkers is a therapeutic arts group supporting children aged 9-13 and their families affected by trauma and loss. Led by trauma-informed specialists, this programme is delivering life-changing outcomes.

The Minack partners with specialist community groups including The Centre, Newlyn and Trelya, to deliver creative workshop programmes specifically targeting young people from deprived areas. The Minack also collaborates with other creative organisations including Cornwall Music Services Trust, The Writers' Block, British Theatre Academy, MADE and Arthur's Club to maximise impact and reach.

"These programmes represent more than arts education – they're about building confidence, creating opportunities, and showing young people from all backgrounds that they have a place in the creative industries," added John Brolly. "When a child from a disadvantaged background performs on our stage or experiences professional theatre for the first time, we're opening doors that might otherwise never be unlocked."

The Minack receives no grant or external funding. Taking Part is paid for through the Minack’s income from tourism and theatre productions.

For more information about the Minack Theatre's Taking Part programme, visit minack.com or contact education@minack.com.