YouthARK Theatre is a youth run subdivision of ARK Theatre, empowering youth (12-25) in both theatrical performances and social activities. Since its commencement in 2015, YouthARK Theatre has staged two full length musicals, four originally written productions, one full length play, and a number of social activities and theatre workshops. YouthARK aims to create opportunities for anyone wanting to participate in theatre, with shows and programs run for youth by youth.
THE YOUTHARK MISSION
To produce high-quality theatrical performances, in a variety of styles, introducing young people to the broad and ever-developing world of theatre.
To celebrate young people and the creative qualities they bring to theatre, both on and off of the stage
To provide mentoring to help develop skills in performance, tech, crew, and design. Giving young people an opportunity for hands-on engagement in the theatre, and learn from experience.
To provide a social outlet for young people in the Outer Eastern Suburbs, giving them the opportunity to meet like-minded individuals in a welcoming space.
To be inclusive of all our participants and viewership, and accepting of all differences
THE YOUTHARK TEAM
Candice Farrugia-Roberts Candice is 20 years old and has been a member of YouthARK Theatre since its first full-length production in 2015. As a writer, director and performer, she believes that YouthARK Theatre will give her, and many others, the capacity to express themselves creatively and develop their abilities on and off of the stage. She believes that theatre does not create friends, it creates family. Although unable to identify a singular favourite, Candice adores all theatre that leaves the audience smiling for the sake of smiling. Bethany Morison
Kurtis Hoegel-Clinch
Zoe Hendriks Zoe is only 15 years old and has always loved performing and felt at home on stage. She is still at high school, loving learning, and has been a long-time member of YouthARK. Zoe enjoys writing, performing, and simply helping out or being a familiar smiling face. She believes that theatre is a safe space where each individual can express themselves. Zoe has finally decided to take on a role behind the scenes and is beyond excited to be working with the awesome people on the YouthARK Team.
Millie Spencer
Lucy Southwell-Hambly Lucy has been interested in drama since primary school when she attended a local community youth theatre group. Throughout high school, she participated in many school productions. As a new member of YouthARK Theatre, she is prepared to contribute to new productions as an actor, director, and writer and is now excited to foster her own passion in younger members of the community.
Gabriella Lee Sudyatmiko Gabriella, fresh out of high school, finds joy and energy in performing with a group of equally enthusiastic people. New to YouthARK Theatre, she is excited to participate in the conception of new theatrical creations and cannot wait to grow as a performer. Previously, she had performed with MISFIT Theatre in a production of ‘She Kills Monsters’ as a Dungeons and Dragons-playing lesbian, and is excited to add to her list of performances. She is a fan of musical theatre of various genres, spanning from the lighthearted; such as Waitress, to the gritty and gruesome; such as The Black Rider: Casting of the Magic Bullets.
past team members: Bella Preston Christopher Keuken Ashleigh Henry Ryan Abblitt Joel Peters Meagan Farrugia-Roberts Shannon Lowden Jack Blackey Mitchell Kalika Peter Verhagen Brady Gray Alexandria Keuken
past team member achievements: Ryan Abblitt - studying film at the New York Film Academy in the Gold Coast Joel Peters - studying Design and Production at the Victorian College of the ARTS Shannon Lowden - working abroad at Disney World in Orlando Florida Peter Verhagen - managing his own Musical Theatre Company ‘Lightbox Productions’ Brady Gray - studying acting at the New York Film Academy in the Gold Coast