A NEW youth theatre group will be launched in Warrington this month.

The group will be open to all budding thespians who are aged between seven and 11 and want to develop their drama skills.

A free taster session will be held this Saturday at the Pyramid between 10am and 11.30am.

The juniors group is being launched by the team behind Express Youth Theatre who already run a successful group for 12 to 16 year olds.

Hollie Wimpenny, who will be running the sessions, said: "It's going to be an informal, relaxed group where youngsters can get together, make new friends, build their team work and trust skills and have fun through theatre."

Express Youth Theatre's current group treads the boards at public performances throughout the year, varying from scripted shows to devised work created by the youngsters themselves.

Hollie, from Stockton Heath, added: "Our group for 12 to 16 year olds has productions every year at the Pyramid and that's something we'll hopefully look at doing with our younger group.

"We'll hopefully get the two groups working together for various projects as well."

Hollie also reckons that acting classes can help young people in other ways in terms of life skills.

The 24-year-old added: "Building confidence at such a young age is really important and standing up in front of a group to introduce yourself or make a presentation can really help with your communication skills.

"I started when I was that age and my parents really saw the difference it made to me. I think it is of great benefit to young people's self esteem."

Sammi Walsh, artistic director, said: "After the success of our current group, we are really excited to be opening a new group and engaging more young people in the arts."

- The first session of the youth theatre group is this Saturday between 10am and 11.30am and is a free taster. Normal sessions cost £5.

To register your interest email express@platformprojects.co.uk or for more information visit expressyouththeatre.org