The Rose Theatre will play host to scores of local performers this April as part of a national celebration of new writing for young people.

New Connections has been organised by the National Theatre and the Rose in Kingston has been chosen as one of 16 regional showcase venues.

From April 6 to 11 schools and youth groups from Kingston, Sutton, Wandsworth and Croydon will bring eight specially written new plays around the theme of friendship to life at the Rose.

Stephen Unwin, artistic director at the Rose said he was delighted to be a part of the festival.

“Not only is this an exciting opportunity for young people to experience the thrill of acting in a professional theatre, but it provides a chance for audiences to see great new writing showcased by talented local people,” he said.

Kingston College will perform The Heights and Six Parties, a hard-hitting fairytale by Lisa McGee on Friday, April 10 with South Thames College from Wandsworth.

Catherine Howett, co-ordinator of performing arts at Kingston College, said: “It has been an exciting and creative process that has really brought a range of our students together - not just actors but designers, technicians and musicians.”

The programme will culminate at a celebratory festival at the National Theatre in London in July.

Tickets for New Connections at the Rose Theatre are £7 or £3.50 for pit cushion seats.

To book, visit the box office in High Street, Kingston, call 0871 230 1552 or visit rosetheatrekingston.org

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