TWO pupils from St Laurence School in Bradford on Avon have created a project to involve young people in all aspects of theatre productions.

Issy Jacob, 14, and Emily Bettles, 15, have secured funding through Trowbridge Area Board to go ahead with their initiative called Take The Lead.

They will write and direct a musical production of POP!, based on the popular book by Catherine Bruton.

Issy has written the script for the production, which will take place in April at the Arc Theatre in Trowbridge, and Emily has edited it.

The show will be produced and performed entirely by young people aged between 12 and 16 and the friends are in the process of looking for performers, designers, choreographers and backstage helpers.

Issy, from Trowbridge, said: “I am really keen that young people should have a chance to create their own productions and ‘take a lead’ as well as just being directed.

“I have been involved with a number of productions myself as a performer and creating something with my peers would be an amazing experience which I hope will inspire many people.”

The pair presented their project proposal to the Trowbridge Area Board and asked for £500 towards the project. They were “delighted” when they were rewarded with £800.

Emily, from Bradford on Avon, said: “We are really grateful for the funding from the Area Board and the support we have had from BA14 Culture and Trowbridge Arts.

“If it is a success and people enjoy it, I think it would be great for it to continue.”

There will be auditions for performers at Trowbridge Town Hall on January 19, from 11am-2pm, and January 20, from 5.30-7.30pm.

Anyone who is interested in being part of the production should contact Trowbridge Arts, which is supporting POP!. Email trowarts@gmail.com or call 01225 774306 to book an audition spot.