National Youth Theatre ‘Epic Stages 2026’ and Future Stars: A Night in Stratford

There are some trips on the road that remind you why you fell in love with this industry in the first place, and my journey down to London this week was one of them.

A Journey Back in Time

I drove down to Stratford to catch one of our fantastic Ghostlight talents performing with the National Youth Theatre. Stepping foot back in Stratford was a trip in itself, I hadn't been back since 2017!

Standing in the area brought back a flood of incredible memories, taking me all the way back to being there for the closing ceremony of the Paralympics in 2012.

To make the walk even sweeter, my route took me straight past Theatre Royal Stratford East—a venue I hold so deeply in my heart—and I even happened to bump into one of my ex-students from my college teaching days!

Watching the Next Generation Shine

Of course, the absolute highlight of the night was taking my seat to watch our talent deliver a fantastic performance on the Source Stratford stage with the National Youth Theatre.

Seeing our talent step into these prestigious environments with confidence and skill is what this job is all about.

Between the nostalgic memories, the chance encounters, and the exceptional theatre, it was a truly delightful evening from start to finish.

Returning home with a stomach full of coffee, a full heart and plenty of inspiration for the week ahead!