The National Youth Theatre of Great Britain is a world-leading youth arts organisation. It was established in 1956 as the first youth theatre in the world and for over 60 years they have nurtured the talent of hundreds of thousands of young people.

Hugh has been a patron of the National Youth Theatre since 2013.

On becoming a patron, Hugh said: “I am delighted to become a patron of the National Youth Theatre. I’d not be doing what I do now were it not for this fantastic organisation: it opened my eyes to what was to become my career. It is an environment which, through theatre, celebrates individuality, demands collaboration, dedication and discipline and engenders mutual respect among its members, skills that are invaluable for any future walk of life. I look forward to waving the National Youth Theatre flag with pride.”

Hugh has helped establish NYT’s new Auditions Access Fund, which will grant £37,500 over three years to fund free preparation workshops, auditions and bursaries at 30 schools and youth groups around Great Britain which have cut drama provision.

NYT Patron and alumnus Hugh Bonneville said: “The chance for young people to explore their creative talents is essential for their development. For some, taking part in drama can inspire a career in the creative industries; for all, it provides invaluable skills, building confidence in communication and self-expression. The decline of drama in schools and cuts to local youth theatre groups is a reality, which is why I am establishing the NYT Audition Access Fund. This initiative will give young talent in specially selected areas of the country where access to drama is under threat the chance to audition for and experience the National Youth Theatre for free. Becoming a member of the NYT changed my life and I’m delighted to be playing my part in giving the next generation a similar opportunity.”

Visit nyt.org.uk/AAF to find out more about the NYT Audition Access Fund and register an interest in NYT coming to your school or youth group.