National Youth Theatre Announces An Exciting Year Of Programmes And Productions In Hamilton

Hamilton, New Zealand – Wednesday 17 December 2025

The National Youth Theatre (NYT) is thrilled to announce a landmark year of opportunities for young performers in Hamilton, with an expanded programme of holiday workshops, weekly classes, and two major musical theatre productions—delivered in partnership with Clarence Street Theatre and the brand new Waikato Regional Theatre.

Building on its growing presence in the Waikato, NYT will offer school holiday programmes and weekly workshops throughout the year at Clarence St Theatre, providing young people with accessible, high-quality training in singing, acting, and dance. These programmes are designed to build confidence, teamwork, creativity, and lasting friendships—both on and off the stage.

From February 2026, NYT will launch a 12-week training programme culminating in a full production of Diary of a Wimpy Kid. Participants will rehearse weekly before taking to the stage for performances in May, gaining hands-on experience in a professionally supported musical theatre environment.

Later in the year, NYT is proud to announce an exciting new opportunity: Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber's CATS, one of the world’s most iconic musicals. Rehearsals will begin in August, with performances in November at the new Waikato Regional Theatre—a once-in-a-lifetime chance for young performers to appear on stage at this major new cultural venue.

True to NYT’s inclusive philosophy, everyone who signs up is cast in the show. There are no auditions required to be part of the chorus, making these programmes a rare opportunity for young people of all experience levels to be part of large-scale, professionally staged productions. Lead roles are auditioned from within the chorus, and multiple cast to maximise the opportunities available.

“Performing at the Waikato Regional Theatre is an extraordinary opportunity for young people in our community,” says James Doy, Chief Executive of the National Youth Theatre. “We’re passionate about removing barriers to participation and creating experiences that build confidence, skills, and a lifelong connection to the arts.”

With programmes designed for ages 7–18, NYT’s Hamilton offerings provide a pathway from first-time performers through to more advanced training—right here in the Waikato.

Registrations for holiday programmes, weekly workshops, Diary of a Wimpy Kid, and Cats are now open.

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