Windmill's Junior Program
Windmill Theatre Company’s Junior Program is designed to inspire, train and empower the next generation of performers and theatre makers through high-quality, fully realised productions.
It is not just about putting on junior shows, it is about educating passionate, driven young people about what it takes to create exciting theatre and teaching them the confidence and skills to become the future leaders in the world of community theatre.
Our Journey
Our commitment to young people in the performing arts began in 2018 with The Next Big Thing, our first youth-focused production. Bringing together performers aged 12 to 26, the program offered a contemporary, variety-style experience that prioritised development, collaboration and confidence. The success of this initiative led to further youth productions in 2019 and 2020, establishing a strong foundation for structured youth engagement within the company.
A pivotal moment came in 2024 with our production of School of Rock, where junior performers worked alongside adult cast members and experienced creatives in a mainstage production environment. The outcome was clear. When young performers are challenged, supported and treated as valued contributors, they rise to the occasion.
The Junior Program Today
Building on this experience, Windmill Theatre Company formally launched its Junior Program in 2025 with The Little Mermaid Junior. This production marked the beginning of a dedicated program focused on learning through participation in a real theatrical process. Junior performers were supported by experienced creatives while developing skills in performance, rehearsal discipline, collaboration and confidence.
The program continues in 2026 with Frozen Junior, further cementing Windmill’s commitment to junior theatre as a core part of the company’s artistic future. While performance is a key focus, the Junior Program extends well beyond the stage. Participants are encouraged to explore technical theatre, creative design, production, administration and leadership roles, gaining insight into the many pathways available within the performing arts industry.
Mentorship and Looking Ahead
In 2026, Windmill expanded this vision with the introduction of the Junior Mentor Program. This initiative supports young people aged 18 to 21 who are ready to take the next step, providing opportunities to work directly alongside established directors, music directors and choreographers. Through observation, collaboration and guided responsibility, participants gain a deeper understanding of professional creative practice and production leadership.
Our long-term goal is clear. We aim to become the program that young people seek out when they are serious about pursuing a future in the arts. By developing the next generation of theatre-makers and leaders, Windmill’s Junior Program is building the skills, confidence and experience required to shape the future of live performance, on stage and behind the scenes.
