CODS Youth Theatre Academy is preparing to make its debut on stage with its very first production — the much-loved musical Matilda Jr.

A brand-new youth theatre group is bringing young performers together in Crediton, with CODS Youth Theatre Academy (CYTA) set to launch its first ever production at the end of October.

Based on the much-loved story by Roald Dahl, Matilda Jr is a vibrant and energetic musical celebrating imagination, courage, friendship and the power of standing up for what is right.

CYTA members during rehearsals.
CYTA members during rehearsals. (CODS)

The production marks an exciting new chapter for CYTA, which has been created to give young people the opportunity to develop their confidence, performance skills and love of theatre in a friendly and supportive environment.

Founders and Directors Lyndsey Betts and Holly Harris, Musical Director Emma Williams and Georgia Steel the Choreographer are thrilled to see the academy come to life.

“This is such an exciting moment for CYTA. We wanted to create a place where young people can come together, make friends, build confidence and discover just how much they can achieve through theatre.

CODS Youth Theatre Academy (CYTA) members singing their parts during rehearsals.
CODS Youth Theatre Academy (CYTA) members singing their parts during rehearsals. (CODS)

“To be launching with Matilda Jr feels absolutely perfect. It is a story about finding your voice, believing in yourself and never giving up — and those are wonderful messages for young people.”

The first CYTA musical project officially launched on Wednesday, May 6, with rehearsals taking place each Wednesday as the young cast work towards their October performances.

The production will be staged at the QE Upper School, Western Road in Crediton from Thursday, October 29 to Saturday, October 31 (including a Saturday Matinee).

CODS Youth Theatre Academy (CYTA) members during acting rehearsals.
CODS Youth Theatre Academy (CYTA) members during acting rehearsals. (CODS)

For many of the young performers, this will be their first opportunity to take part in a full-scale musical production, while others are returning to the stage with CYTA after previous theatre experience.

The academy also welcomes new members, providing opportunities for young people to learn about acting, singing and dancing while working as part of a team.

Holly added: “Theatre is about so much more than performing on stage. It teaches teamwork, resilience, confidence and communication, while giving young people a safe space to be themselves.

“We are incredibly excited to see this first group of young performers take their journey from the rehearsal room to the stage.”

CODS Youth Theatre Academy young people during rehearsals for Matilda Jr.
CODS Youth Theatre Academy young people during rehearsals for Matilda Jr. (CODS)

With colourful characters, memorable songs, plenty of comedy and a whole lot of youthful energy, Matilda Jr promises to be a fitting first production for the new academy.

And if the enthusiasm of the young cast is anything to go by, CYTA could be the beginning of something very special for youth theatre in Crediton.

The Box Office is open now and you can get tickets via the website www.codsonline.com or via the link: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/codscrediton/2330714