After 50 years, Tantrum Youth Arts still lets young people write theatre
Tantrum Youth Arts, founded in 1976, celebrates 50 years by pioneering "playbuilding": young people create and perform the theatre.
Tantrum Youth Arts has reached an unlikely milestone after half a century. Co-founder Dr Barney Langford never expected it to survive this long.
The group started with primary school kids but soon expanded to high school-aged performers. In the late 1980s, a seniors group was added.
In the mid-1990s, members adopted the name Tantrum and chose independence. What set Tantrum apart was "playbuilding": the young people didn't just perform; they created the theatre itself.
Over 50 years, thousands of young people have taken part. Tantrum has premiered more than 25 plays by young writers.
It has worked with young people in the criminal justice system and those with disabilities. Langford believes every young person is "a creative, thoughtful, analytical human" who deserves the chance to express themselves in a supported, collaborative space.
- 1976
- Year founded
- Charlestown South Public School
- Original location
- Dr Barney Langford and Mike Foster
- Co-founders
- More than 25
- Plays premiered by young writers
Why it mattersResearch shows arts involvement builds confidence and self-esteem in young people. Tantrum's 50-year survival proves the model works.
AustraliaA Newcastle-based program that has shaped thousands of young Australians through arts participation and creative expression over five decades.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 47 min ago
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