Berkhamsted Youth Theatre was originally formed though BAODS Theatre Company. On the 6th March 1983 a formal proposal was presented to the committee of BAODS by 4 of their members. This proposal outlined the need for a junior section of BAODS in order to feed the growth of youth involvement in the theatre.

At this time BAODS was performing ‘Carousel’ so it was the ideal opportunity to involve those children in the show to form a junior membership.

In May 1984 the 1st newsletter was sent to Junior BAODS telling them of the plans and in July that same year, a newsletter went out inviting young people to audition for the first “no adults production of” ‘Wizard of OZ’ (performed in January 1985). At the end of the show there were 35 members.

In the ensuing years the committee decided that in order to develop the Youth Theatre it needed it’s own identity. This was pioneered by Janet Cartwright and Linda Horsfall and BYT was formed.

To date BYT has had over 500 members from all the local schools and have put on over 50 productions and numerous charity performances.

To become a member check out our Auditions page.