The prestigious National Youth Theatre (NYT) has unveiled its largest-ever round of free nationwide auditions in 2025. Open to young people aged 14–25 (and up to 30 for disabled and neurodivergent participants), these auditions will take place in 14 cities across the UK.
Additional options include submitting a video audition or participating in auditions hosted at over 50 schools.
Where and When
Auditions will be held in Belfast, Birmingham, Bristol, Exeter, Glasgow, London, Leeds, Liverpool, Manchester, Newcastle, Perth, Poole, and Sheffield, with dates for Welsh locations to follow. NYT aims to create a relaxed and inclusive audition environment, offering participants the chance to explore their potential, connect with like-minded creatives, and learn about NYT’s range of courses.
Key dates include:
- London: 11 & 12 January, 15 February (Holloway, NYT Headquarters)
- Birmingham: 10 February (BOA Stage and Screen Academy, alumni include David Harewood)
- Belfast: 16 February (Lyric Belfast)
- Bristol: 22 February (Bristol Grammar School, alumni Joel Dommett)
- Glasgow: 22 February (The Boardwalk, alumni Lauren Lyle)
- Liverpool: 15 March (LIPA, alumni Con O’Neill)
- Leeds: 9 March (Olivier Award-winner Elliot Levey)
Additional locations include Exeter, Newcastle, Sheffield, and NYT’s first auditions in Perth and Poole. Full details are available on the NYT website: nyt.org.uk.
Digital and School Auditions
For those unable to attend in person, NYT offers a digital audition option. Applicants can submit a video monologue and answer interview questions online. Over 50 schools nationwide will also host auditions, extending opportunities to even more young people.
New “Audition Choice Award”
This year introduces the Audition Choice Award, which will recognise two standout participants from each location with a free course of study and accommodation (where applicable). Additional awards will go to exceptional online auditionees and a school showcasing remarkable talent.
NYT’s Legacy and Vision
Since its founding in 1956 as the world’s first youth theatre, NYT has nurtured global stars such as Daniel Craig, Helen Mirren, Rosamund Pike, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Florence Pugh, and Ed Sheeran.
“Start your 2025 story with a free National Youth Theatre audition. We’re offering free auditions at more locations than ever before this year.
At every location our new Audition Choice Award will offer a completely free place to a stand out auditionee. In addition to our already extensive free offer, we’re adding this extra element to recognise outstanding talent at each of our audition days around the UK.
We’re also auditioning in more than 50 schools and young people anywhere in the UK can audition via video, making it our most accessible audition round ever.”
Paul Roseby OBE, CEO & Artistic Director of National Youth Theatre
NYT remains committed to inclusion, providing a creative home for young storytelling talent from diverse backgrounds, supported by Arts Council England and the Leverhulme Trust.
