A UNIQUE scheme to nurture young directing talent is reopening its doors after the appointment of a former trainee to the role of director of one of this season’s Perth Youth Theatre (PYT) productions.

The Perth-based scheme —the only one of its kind in Scotland—is now looking for three more recruits wishing to develop their skills.

It is designed for those who want a career in community drama or directing, but who feel they would benefit from some hands-on experience.

PYT associate director Jennie McGregor said, “When I graduated, I really felt I would benefit from additional opportunities to devise and lead workshops in a supportive environment before going it alone, and this is what the scheme offers.”

Scheme director Barry Henderson added, “The scheme is an amazing opportunity for young practitioners to work alongside established theatre professionals and engage with a variety of creative practices.

“I have been afforded the opportunity to work on two pieces of work which have both challenged and widened my ideas about working with youth theatre, and I feel confident that I have solidified enough ideas to continue working in this area with creativity and a sense of how a youth theatre engages young performers/writers on many levels.”

Successful applicants will work alongside professional theatre practitioners to plan and deliver drama workshops for PYT.

In addition, trainees will act as assistant director for a minimum of one PYT production.

Trainees will also have the opportunity to gain experience of community and education projects.

Candidates must be over 18 and in further education in a drama based subject, have completed such a course within the last two years or have practical experience of devising and leading drama workshops.

They must have excellent inter-personal skills, combined with a positive and energetic outlook.

The scheme runs from October 2007 to July 2008.