New Youth Theatre Production in Basildon and Southend

Young performers from BLAST Youth Theatre are set to enchant audiences this summer with Found, an original play written by Essex-based playwright Kate Austen. With a magical storyline and a beautifully crafted puppet at its heart, Found is a unique new production exploring themes of belonging, identity, and friendship – all told through the eyes of Archibald, a lost magician’s puppet.

Created and performed by children aged 8–12, BLAST Youth Theatre supports young people with English as an Additional Language to build confidence, develop communication skills and connect with their community through the arts. The project is delivered by Elevator Arts in partnership with Welcome To The UK, Signpost (Basildon), and the Towngate Theatre.

Directed by Michelle Barrington, the production also features puppetry direction from Hannah Brailsford and design by Kayla Teodoro – who not only designed the set and costumes but also created the show’s stunning puppet, Archibald. Kayla brings a wealth of experience from acclaimed stage productions including My Neighbour Totoro, Spirited Away and The Lion King, as well as film and TV work including Doctor Who.

“This is a very special show,”

Says Youth Theatre Director, Michelle,

“It’s been incredible to watch the young people develop their confidence and storytelling skills. Their voices are at the centre of this production – and they’re telling a story that’s full of warmth, magic and meaning.”

Found is part of Ripple Effect, Elevator Arts’ project funded by Arts Council England supporting children and young people from diverse and underserved communities. The show will be performed at professional theatres in both Basildon (Towngate Theatre, Mirren Studio) and Southend (Palace Theatre, Dixon Studio) this July (24th July at Towngate Theatre, Mirren Studio, Basildon and 26th July at Palace Theatre, Dixon Studio, Southend).

Aston spoke to Alison Garner, director at Elevator Arts and Michelle Barrington, youth theatre director at Elevator Arts.