Aberdeen Performing Arts has announced the city’s youth arts festival, Light the Blue, will take place from June 10-18 with its biggest ever line up and most ambitious programme of events yet.
Almost 30 events are planned across six venues over eight days with events, activities and workshops for ages ranging from 5 up to 25. International and world-class performers will rub shoulders with the best and brightest young creatives in the region in a celebration of the performing arts taking in music, film, dance, workshops and drama.
The festival features a series of performances and collaborations with organisations from around Scotland and beyond including the Traverse Theatre, Citymoves Dance Agency, Mahogany Opera, North East Scotland College, Orchard Brae School, Scottish Youth Theatre, Eden Court Youth Theatre and many more.
Aberdeen Performing Arts Light the Blue Creative Producer Jordan Blackwood said: “Light the Blue is created by young people, for young people. Whether you want to be in the thick of the action or prefer to sit back and enjoy the show, there’s a place for anyone aged 5-25 and their families, and we really want to get that across. One of the huge benefits of taking part in the arts as a young person is the feeling of acceptance and the celebration of our differences that it encourages. This festival is all about celebrating those benefits, from introducing youngsters to their first theatrical experience, all the way through to giving a platform to those who have chosen the arts as a career path and want to develop and showcase their skills.”
With many events free to attend or pay what you can, the festival will be accessible to as many people as possible, while also paving the way for future youth arts projects by giving audiences the chance to make a donation.
Jordan added: “It’s very important to us to reach as many people and remove as many barriers as possible when it comes to the arts for young people.
”Whether you are taking part in Light the Blue or coming along as a member of the audience, it’s a great way to get involved and find out what’s on offer in the region.
The festival has such a fresh and dynamic energy, encouraging and developing new talent in a professional setting while leaving room for creativity to flourish.”
“We can’t wait to see everyone this June so come along, get involved, and support the amazing young talent we have right here in the North East.”
The festival starts on Saturday, June 10 featuring a series of events and performances aimed at young families.
The full programme of events and further information can be found at www.aberdeenperformingarts.com/light-the-blue.
Tickets for Light The Blue are on sale today from www.aberdeenperformingarts.com, phone (01224) 641122 or visit the box office at His Majesty’s Theatre or the Music Hall.