A New Professional Theatre Company for Young Performers at The Artrix

A New Professional Theatre Company for Young Performers at The Artrix

As The Star Project celebrates its 20th anniversary, the Worcestershire-based theatre school is marking the milestone by launching its first professional company, opening professional-level performance opportunities to young performers aged 12 to 18.

Founded in 2006, The Star Project runs four musical theatre schools across Barnt Green, Cofton Hackett, Droitwich and Worcester. Over the past two decades, it has built a strong reputation for nurturing confidence, creativity and performance skills in children and young people. The launch of The Star Project Young Company (SPYC) represents the next chapter in that journey — an elite programme designed to bridge the gap between training and professional work.

The initiative was founded by Jo Payne, a Barnt Green-based performer and theatre maker, who now lives in Vancouver. Despite being based overseas, Jo continues to run The Star Project remotely, remaining deeply committed to the development of youth theatre in her home county.

SPYC currently consists of 15 performers, with plans to grow to around 20 members, including five places available for new company members for the next production. The organisation is working towards funded status and is actively seeking sponsors and funding partners to support its future work.

Their next production will be Fame, staged at The Artrix Studio Theatre on 30 and 31 May, with auditions taking place on Thursday 6 February.