The Guernsey Youth Theatre was founded by Margaret McDonaugh in 1976.

The first production was "The Importance of Being Earnest", by Oscar Wilde.

With the assistance of the Education Council and the Youth Service, and specifically the
help of John Stevenson and George Foote, the Youth Theatre was given a home at the
Spencer Gerhold Hall, and then later the Studio behind the old boy's Grammar School.

Over the last 30 years the Youth Theatre has delighted audiences with large scale productions
at Beau Sejour, St James' and small intimate performances at the Studio.

The Studio has allowed youngsters to put on productions which are experimental and would not
have otherwise seen the light of day. It has helped develop new writing, and encouraged
young people to realise their dreams whether it be through performance, direction or the production
of plays and projects.

Althought the Youth Theatre does not train actors for the profession, many members have
gone on to train and perform professionally. The Youth Theatre has given an important foundation
to those who wished to go on and pursue a career in the arts.

Over the years, members of the Youth Theatre have travelled to the mainland to bring back skills
and to develop new ideas. Groups have successfully attended the National Student Drama Festival,
performed at the Young Vic in London, and professional actors and directors have been invited
over to share their talents with locals. A strong link has developed with the Play on Words Company
which continues to bring the theatre into the classroom. A summer school was introduced, which led to
the now traditional 24 hour musical which has to date raised over £10.000 for charities.

2006 will be the 30th anniversary of the Guernsey Youth Theatre.