In 2023, Young Peoples Theatre, Newcastle Inc. is celebrating an exciting milestone of 75 years of 'theatre for young people, by young people'. From an idea born in 1948 by our founders Bill and Betty Ford, to the current theatre school and theatre company, YPT has had the pleasure and responsibility of training generations of young creatives over the past seven decades.

As a not-for-profit, YPT relies heavily on our volunteers, who for many years have kept YPT sustainable and able to continue creating opportunities for young people. We have loved watching our community grow, with many current volunteers being YPT alumni, now with their own children going through our programs. It is an organization that means so much to so many and is often referred to as ‘family’ or 'home' by our students and members.

A highlight in our story is the purchase of the seventh-day Adventist church in the 1970’s, which became our theatre. This transformation was due to the overwhelming, generous support of our community; some families remortgaging their homes to support the purchase, which is a contribution we are eternally grateful for. YPT sadly lost the theatre to a fire in 1995 and overcame this tragedy after students and their families quite literally assisted to rebuild the space. The doors have been open again since 1999 and the organisation continues to expand.

In our 75th year, we ask once again ask for the generosity of our community, to contribute to supporting YPT's trajectory into the next milestone. YPT's goal is to raise $75 000 to celebrate our 75th year. Reaching this goal will support our continued legacy, maintain our organisation and most importantly, generate future opportunities for young people people in Newcastle. 

We anticipate a year of celebration and reconnection with past alumni and volunteers as we pay tribute to YPT's extraordinary legacy in Newcastle.

Thank you in advance for your support.