RLT Youth Theatre, part of Retford Little Theatre, is celebrating its 10th anniversary after a decade of growing success. During that time, the group has built a strong reputation for adapting and reinventing classic stories for modern audiences, producing original interpretations of Peter Pan, Robin Hood, A Midsummer Night’s Dream and many more.
Last year, the group presented its own magical adaptation of Arabian Nights, with both the script and music written by Victoria Evans. The production went on to win the NODA Award for Best Youth Production 2025 in the region. The group also celebrated the success of one of its talented members, Henri T, who was nominated for Best Actor in a Youth Production.
Their latest production, which completed its run at the beginning of July, was a contemporary adaptation of Romeo and Juliet. Combining Shakespeare’s original language with a modern script, the story was set in a present-day boarding school, where two rival houses – the Montagues and the Capulets – remained divided by generations of hatred. When knife crime infiltrates youth culture, it threatens to destroy the instant connection between Romeo and Juliet.
Featuring a carefully chosen modern soundtrack, physical theatre, striking movement sequences and powerful performances from young people aged 11 to 18, the production proved both moving and thought-provoking. With more than one standing ovation, the cast demonstrated that the world’s greatest love story continues to resonate with modern audiences. Retford is fortunate to have a youth theatre that encourages young performers to challenge themselves, push their boundaries and take on demanding yet rewarding roles.
The group’s next production will be a fresh adaptation of Charles Dickens’ timeless classic, A Christmas Carol, this December. As always, RLT Youth Theatre will bring its own distinctive interpretation to the story, giving new life to a much-loved classic while remaining true to its heart and message. If previous productions are anything to go by, audiences can expect an imaginative, moving and memorable theatrical experience.
A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, adapted by Victoria Evans, will be performed on Thursday 17th and Friday 18th December at 7.30pm at Retford Little Theatre.
Tickets cost £5.00 and are available from http://www.ticketsource.co.uk/rlt.