The SEASIDE Youth Theatre Group was formed in January 1 998 with funding provided jointly by the National Literary Secretariat and the Literacy Development Council, in partnership with the Bonaventure - English Harbour Development Association, the Bonavista Area Regional Development Association and theatrical assistance provided by the nationally acclaimed Performers for Literacy.

Under the direction of Ruth Lawrence, the group acquired valuable theatrical skills that can be transferred into any work place. These skills included teamwork skills, leadership skills and communication skills, just to name a few.

Our aim was to provide exposure to the literacy movement by developing and performing a variety of unique plays based on our own history and culture while at the same time educating our young audiences about the importance of literacy and life-long learning.

This project has also helped our young players develop skills and knowledge that will help them set potential career paths. Cindy Stead, Project Manager, took the group through a four week session on life skills and profile development. "In addition to resume writing, cover letters, job-search techniques and interview skills, we looked at who they are, where they came from, their likes and dislikes, trying to apply that to a career choice and post-secondary education, said Stead."

In addition to researching and writing their own scripts, our young players have gained valuable knowledge of our local history as well as grammar, story structure and theatrical form.

Our players have also learned the importance of interaction between children, parents and the communities in which they live, Stead said. By doing so, the young players will have learned a new approach to literacy and will act as positive role models for young adults.

From April 1st to April 24th, the group, Merissa Clarke Port Reston, Lisa Bradley - Bonavista, Tony Toope - Old Bonaventure and Jeff White - Catalina, performed over 23 shows in front of 3,000 students and parents covering the entire Vista School District from Southern Harbour to Bonavista.

The SEASIDE Youth Theatre Group represents a dedicated and talented team of youth which brings the message, Reading is Fun - Learning is Fun!