The company celebrated the milestone with a special event showcasing the history, artistry, and values that have defined its work for half a century now. Guillermo Nazara chats with the group’s guiding force, as they discuss the achievements and future goals of one of the UK’s biggest generators of new talent.
How does it feel to be celebrating 50 years of legacy?
It’s a wonderful moment for so many people who have experienced NYMT, made friends, and become more confident as individuals because of it. The past 50 years have allowed people to find a home and a family where they feel they can truly be themselves.
The company is defined by three key principles: inclusion, industry, and invention. How are those values reflected in this year’s showcase?
All the work that NYMT does is led and driven by our values. The programme next year will push NYMT to reach new young people and audiences, and challenge us to take NYMT into the next 50 years.
How have those values evolved throughout NYMT’s five decades of existence?
Over the past five decades, NYMT has not only opened its doors to more young people from different backgrounds but also broadened its style of work, ensuring it stays at the forefront of the industry, whether through the new writers we collaborate with or the industry professionals who help shape our productions.
How do you think NYMT stands out in championing new talent compared to other groups with a similar mission?
Collaboration is key and fundamental for all of us, and I hope that as we grow, we continue to work with other groups. NYMT provides a home for young people across the UK to find other like-minded individuals who are either at the very top of their craft or have the greatest passion for musical theatre, whether they are actors, musicians, or creative and production practitioners.
What are the challenges behind that mission in today’s artistic climate?
With arts education still not at the forefront of our government’s priorities, many young people simply do not know about theatre and the career prospects it can offer. As we work within the youth sector alongside SOLT and similar organisations, I hope we can help widen understanding and appreciation of the arts.
In your opinion, what is the key to properly nurturing up-and-coming talent?
There is no single rule for everyone. Each young person is unique, and we work to ensure they are understood both personally and artistically. We aim to support them pastorally and creatively, enabling them to progress and learn.
What has the development process of this year’s showcase been like?
Fifty years of any company brings with it legacy, but also the desire to look forward, grow, and imagine the future. I feel the work we are doing allows exactly that.
This showcase looks back on the company’s proficient past, but does it look into its future too?
It is more about the future than the past. While our past will guide and support us, it is our future that holds the excitement and the key to growth.
Have you found any particular challenges while putting these shows together?
Choosing shows for an anniversary is crucial, and it is not always about the title itself but the magic behind it. Working with our practitioners, writers, and the NYMT team will make 2026 a defining year for the company.
Are there any highlights in this year’s double-bill showcase you would like to flag?
West Side Story is a statement piece, not only in what we do with it, but because many in the industry might shy away from it. We take those challenges head on.
What are the company’s prospects and new goals for its next half-century?
Guided by our values, we hope to welcome more young people from all backgrounds into the industry, helping them find new and inventive sounds for the future.
Why come to see the NYMT?
Come and see what we are about, find your home, your family, and friends for life, while developing your craft in one of the most exciting careers imaginable.
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Picture credit to Harry Elletson.
Upcoming events by the National Youth Music Theatre are available on the following link.