Summer Youth Projects Auditions
July - August 2025
Event details
Are you ready to immerse yourself in the world of performing arts this summer?
At Mayflower we’re offering two incredible opportunities for young people to showcase their talent and creativity. Whether you’re passionate about dance, musical theatre, or both, these projects provide a chance to collaborate with industry professionals, connect with like-minded individuals, and create unforgettable performances.
The Last Rose of Summer, a new work inspired by Jane Austen’s connection to Southampton and taking place at MAST Mayflower Studios, invites participants aged 11-25 to bring her story to life through dance and musical theatre, with groups working alongside prestigious companies like Birmingham Royal Ballet and Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures. Meanwhile, Grease The Musical School Edition offers performers aged 11-18 the thrilling experience of staging a full-scale production on Mayflower Theatre’s iconic stage.
Both programmes promise to be immersive, fun, and inspiring, providing a supportive environment where young performers can build confidence, hone their craft, and make lifelong memories.
Venue
MAST Mayflower Studios
Price
The Last Rose of Summer
£200 per participant
Grease The Musical
£250 per participant
There is a discounted rate for those who wish to take part in both projects. There will also be an opportunity to apply for a bursary (fully or partially funded) for both or either of the projects.
Audition Dates
The Last Rose of Summer:
Sunday 27 April 2025
Sunday 4 May 2025
You must be available for both dates.
Grease The Musical School Edition:
Sunday 2 March 2025
Sunday 23 March 2025
You must be available for both dates.
Summer Youth Projects
The Last Rose of Summer
To celebrate the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s life, we’re bringing together young people aged 11 – 25 years, with support from Southampton Forward, to create a unique musical dance journey inspired by her story in Southampton – The Last Rose of Summer. This immersive project combines dance and musical theatre to showcase Austen’s legacy through dynamic performances. Over two weeks in the summer, participants will collaborate with creative professionals and renowned dance companies to bring this vision to life!
Ages 11-15: Dance company working with Birmingham Royal Ballet.
Ages 11-25: Musical theatre company working with Mayflower.
Ages 16-25: Dance company working with Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures.
Each group will create aspects of the piece that will weave together to form The Last Rose of Summer. The project will culminate with live performances in Studio 1 at MAST Mayflower Studios.
Who We’re Looking For:
Passionate young dancers, singers, and actors aged 11-25 with an interest in musical theatre, dance, or both!
Audition Dates (you must be available for both dates):
Sunday 27 April 2025
Sunday 4 May 2025
Dates:
Two-week programme from 27 July 2025 – 09 August 2025.
Location:
MAST Mayflower Studios, Southampton.
Registration Closes:
6 April 2025
Grease The Musical School Edition
Join us for the ultimate feel-good musical, Grease, performed by an outstanding cast of over 150 talented young people from our local community.
Feel the electrifying energy of Rydell High as Danny, Sandy, the Pink Ladies, and the Burger Palace Boys bring this iconic story to life with unforgettable songs and dazzling choreography. Watch in awe as the talented young cast captures the highs and lows of teenage love and heartbreak.
The Summer Youth Project (SYP) is an ambitious life-changing programme designed to nurture a love for the performing arts and create unique opportunities for young people to take part.
It’s hands-on, immersive and character-building. It’s friendly, open and inclusive. It’s exciting, fast-paced and fun. It’s a safe space for young people to explore their creativity and find their place in the world of performing arts. A once in a lifetime chance to follow their dream.
Ages 11-18: Performing on Mayflower Theatre’s stage.
Who We’re Looking For:
Passionate young dancers, singers, and actors aged 11-18 with an interest in musical theatre.
Dates:
Two-week programme from 10 August 2025 – 23 August 2025.
Audition Dates (you must be available for both dates):
Sunday 2 March 2025
Sunday 23 March 2025
Location:
Mayflower Theatre, Southampton.
Registration Closes:
18 February 2025
A Christmas Carol
Join a cast of 50 young performers aged 11-17 years old, in this vibrant tale of Ebenezer Scrooge and one unforgettable night which comes vividly to life in a festive musical that will delight families next Christmas.
We are bringing this show back by popular demand after a sell out season in 2023. A Christmas Carol is a classic that will take you on a journey of discovery and leave you feeling uplifted- the perfect way to get you into the Christmas spirit.
AUDITION INFORMATION TO BE RELEASED SOON