Funding boost breathes new life into iconic youth theatre in Newcastle

newy.com.au – Newcastle’s much-loved Young People’s Theatre (YPT) is set to receive a significant $200,000 funding injection to enhance its facilities, thanks to the NSW Government’s Infrastructure Grants Program.

Announced on Monday, 24 March 2025, the funding comes from the November 2024 round of the program and will allow the not-for-profit group to redevelop key parts of its Hamilton venue. Upgrades will include rehearsal areas, performance spaces, and areas open to the public.

A cornerstone of the city’s creative community for more than 75 years, YPT runs weekly drama classes for over 400 young people aged between 8 and 18. The theatre has played a pivotal role in nurturing emerging talent and fostering a lifelong love of the performing arts among local youth.

The Infrastructure Grants Program, delivered through ClubGrants Category 3, aims to support community-focused projects across areas such as arts and culture, sport, recreation, and disaster readiness. YPT is one of 37 projects to share in this latest funding round, which follows a previous $6.44 million allocation in July 2024 to 46 different initiatives.

Since its inception in 2013, the program has awarded more than $152 million to over 880 community-based projects across New South Wales.

State Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp praised the theatre’s legacy and the impact of the funding: “YPT has been a beloved creative hub for over seven decades and is an important part of the social and cultural fabric here in Newcastle,” he said.

“This funding will contribute towards the development of a modern, fit-for-purpose theatre dedicated to increasing social connections and support for young people in Newcastle.”

Mr Crakanthorp also extended his congratulations to the organisation and said he looks forward to seeing the exciting new projects that will come from the revitalised space.