The Barbican Theatre is a dynamic charity started in 1980 with young people and the development of creative skills at the heart of all that we do

Our ambition has been to raise the standard of dance and theatre performance being produced by, with and for young people. We seek to challenge what traditional notions of theatre and dance are and liberate the imagination of young people to create fresh and exciting work that comes from new and unusual voices – voices that are often unheard.

We challenge our young people to work hard at their craft and develop creative and social skills which enhance their learning, resilience and determination to succeed in whatever career path they choose.

Our mission

To offer as many people as possible, but especially the young, access to, participation in, and enjoyment of high quality artistic activity, without prejudice.

This is practiced in the belief that such involvement cultivates, inspires and enthuses individuals and communities to explore and express needs, voice opinions, celebrate together and agitate to provoke social and cultural change.