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Extra-curricular activities

Find advice on the best extra curricular activities in secondary schools and primary schools here.

Original poster

NYMT / BYMT 2025

974 replies

doesanybodyhaveamap · 22/10/2024 19:22

Starting off a new thread for 2025 now that both organisations have opened applications for next season!

OP posts:
yodaforpresident · 23/02/2025 15:15

@MxPickles yes, that’s fine.

Triflefan · 23/02/2025 15:22

2 is a good number for towels

Mariaamariaa · 23/02/2025 15:26

Biscuitsneeded · 23/02/2025 14:54

Eek, everybody calm down! It's all got out of hand.

@Mariaamariaa I honestly don't doubt your GD's talent. That's the truth. NYMT saw it too because they recalled her. Unfortunately, the competition is such that phenomenally talented young people don't get cast every year. Even kids who have been West End Matildas. Please don't take it to heart, or think that a no thanks on this occasion is a slight to your GD or designed to undermine her confidence. Kids (particularly the performing kind) are a pretty resilient bunch and they usually bounce back pretty quickly. They need to learn this skill because it's part of the job. Possibly your GD has been pretty successful thus far because she's good and this has been a blow, but I bet she'll impress you by putting this in perspective pretty quickly. I hope she enjoyed her audition and recall. The information about the possible outcomes of recall should have been available in the email about the casting weekend, and would have been repeated verbally at the start of the recall session I expect. Possibly you weren't party to the email and/or your GD didn't fully grasp what was being said.
I do take your point that it's a lot of travel and expense to attend a recall with no guarantee of being cast in a show. I'm not sure what the solution to that would be, other than to recall only the numbers needed, which would mean far fewer chances all round, or to rotate the venue annually so it's not always in London and the expense is shared. As someone else has said, kids and parents travel hundreds of miles to attend several rounds of auditions for pro shows to end up with nothing at the end. I do hope you and your GD had a fun trip to London at least.
12+ is a difficult age for performing kids because they stop being cute and the opportunities tend to dry up a bit. Organisations like NYMT and BYMT plug that gap beautifully by providing opportunities for talented preteens and teens, but sadly there just aren't enough places for everyone. BYMT don't do recalls so you could try them next year and your DD will at least get a yes, a waitlist place or a no without needing to travel.
I apologise for my part in the spat earlier. I felt your criticism of NYMT was ill-informed and unfair, but having stepped away I understand you are an understandably proud hurting Grandma who feels bad for her GD. I hope she's OK and I wish you and her all the best.

Thank you so much for your words of reassurance and advice I really appreciate it.
Yes it is very difficult where to place my GD as she has done so much with much older cast and adults for so many years it has bee really hard to place her without her being taken back to age appropriate material which she gets very bored as she's past that type of training.
We were under the impression that getting an invitation to a castings workshop that she would definitely be put in a New Musicals Workshop
We also believed that the trip to London was to decide which New Musical she would be placed best in.
Again, this was due to us not understanding the process.
Thankfully she attends The Birmingham Hippodrome Theatre and will be performing in their annual show in the same Patrick Studio that NYMT will be performing Fame and their other shows, so she doesn't feel like she's missing out
Everyone at the auditions were incredibily lovely welcoming people
This thread has put a lot into perspective for me and I do hope those other parents I've spoken to who returned for auditions for the second timealso with very vague understanding of the process do manage to find support in this thread.
We will certainly be much better equipped for future auditions of this kind so once again many thanks to you and everyone else that gave positive input and didn't take offence

Original poster
doesanybodyhaveamap · 23/02/2025 16:16

Sorry for radio silence guys I've not had access to my phone all day.

In terms of NYMT / BYMT in light of today's controversy I'm not going to share our story here. All I will say is that DC did both back to back in their first year of doing this, and for us at least, there's no comparison and DC won't look at BYMT anymore (even knowing their beloved Jordan Li Smith is working with them this year!)

But we also know a lot of people who have had wonderful, high quality experiences with BYMT. I do think it's a bit more variable though.

OP posts:
WillowFae · 23/02/2025 16:17

@Mariaamariaa - you CAN’T shield your GD if she wants to go into the industry. This is what the industry is like and even at 12 she needs to be aware of that. You keep saying how talented she is and the work she has already done. She clearly is talented otherwise she wouldn’t have got a recall. However, for 150 places, there could be 300 young people with equal talent and experience. Then it comes down to the casting process. Building a company that works as a unit. Putting people in roles that are suited to them. The most talented performer could still not get cast because the roles/shows are not right for them at this point in time.

You want to protect her, I get it. But the best way to protect her is to ensure that she is fully aware how the industry works so that she can be prepared and make an informed decision on whether or not they want to pursue it as a career.

MxPickles · 23/02/2025 16:19

doesanybodyhaveamap · 23/02/2025 16:16

Sorry for radio silence guys I've not had access to my phone all day.

In terms of NYMT / BYMT in light of today's controversy I'm not going to share our story here. All I will say is that DC did both back to back in their first year of doing this, and for us at least, there's no comparison and DC won't look at BYMT anymore (even knowing their beloved Jordan Li Smith is working with them this year!)

But we also know a lot of people who have had wonderful, high quality experiences with BYMT. I do think it's a bit more variable though.

Totally need to have a catch up with you when dm's are working :)

Also what is up with DM's today MN?

allhailthebrain · 23/02/2025 16:20

MxPickles · 23/02/2025 16:19

Totally need to have a catch up with you when dm's are working :)

Also what is up with DM's today MN?

Show quote history

I know! They already weren't working late last night and seemingly have never come back up/been switched back on...

DalekFan · 23/02/2025 16:22

Apparently DMs are disabled at the moment as someone was sent CSA material via a private message, so Mumsnet are investigating.

MxPickles · 23/02/2025 16:32

DalekFan · 23/02/2025 16:22

Apparently DMs are disabled at the moment as someone was sent CSA material via a private message, so Mumsnet are investigating.

Edited

Oh my just saw the official MNHQ post about users receiving awful links via PM. Horrific. Be well everyone x

Mumster40 · 23/02/2025 16:35

After reading ALL of these messages: I’m thinking a bath towel and a flannel would be best.And extra chocolate biscuits. Happy Sunday everyone x

SummerTheatre · 23/02/2025 16:38

My child has been in a show in the past but I'm still wondering what an advanced skills course is? Has anyone done it in the past? Everyone gets something in NYMT now which is nice, but it is somewhat understandable that it's not completely transparent what will happen after a casting workshop if you haven't been there before.

The DC will love whatever they do! That's for sure.

Mariaamariaa · 23/02/2025 16:51

WillowFae · 23/02/2025 16:17

@Mariaamariaa - you CAN’T shield your GD if she wants to go into the industry. This is what the industry is like and even at 12 she needs to be aware of that. You keep saying how talented she is and the work she has already done. She clearly is talented otherwise she wouldn’t have got a recall. However, for 150 places, there could be 300 young people with equal talent and experience. Then it comes down to the casting process. Building a company that works as a unit. Putting people in roles that are suited to them. The most talented performer could still not get cast because the roles/shows are not right for them at this point in time.

You want to protect her, I get it. But the best way to protect her is to ensure that she is fully aware how the industry works so that she can be prepared and make an informed decision on whether or not they want to pursue it as a career.

Hi
Thank you this has definitely educated both of us for future auditions with large London based Theatre Schools I appreciate your advice

WillowFae · 23/02/2025 17:00

Mariaamariaa · 23/02/2025 16:51

Hi
Thank you this has definitely educated both of us for future auditions with large London based Theatre Schools I appreciate your advice

Show quote history

Another piece of advice would be training. You contact what training your GD has done, other than a grade 7 exam. For example if she hasn’t had training in Ballet, modern, jazz, etc, then that will affect her chances of being cast. It’s not just about acting and singing. At her age, training is more important than performing.

Mariaamariaa · 23/02/2025 17:04

WillowFae · 23/02/2025 17:00

Another piece of advice would be training. You contact what training your GD has done, other than a grade 7 exam. For example if she hasn’t had training in Ballet, modern, jazz, etc, then that will affect her chances of being cast. It’s not just about acting and singing. At her age, training is more important than performing.

Show quote history

She's also at a dance academy performing in South of France in July, the only thing she isn't trained in is Ballet so worth her taking this up as well
Thanks once again

Lionelblair · 23/02/2025 17:06

Re. BYMT and NYMT my DS has done a new musical workshop with NYMT and then did two years in shows with BYMT and now is in a show with NYMT. He is somewhat apprehensive about not choosing BYMT this year - we can’t afford both. The apprehension is largely due to him having had the most brilliant couple of years with BYMT shows. His first year at NYMT was probably slightly marred by him having a bit of homesickness rather than anything to do with the experience itself. It was the first year after covid when things were back on and I think all kids were a bit out of sorts and he was only 12 & had the weirdest couple of years in lockdowns. i think his apprehension is also possibly linked to NYMT having an older feel to it and while he’s very independent he’s aware that many young people will be that bit older than him. However, he’s willing to see how this year goes. He just wants to learn as much as possible and get on stage. Both offer these opportunities in buckets.

The auditions for NYMT are more in depth and he would say that this gives it a more professional feel.

Today has been a real eye opener in terms of how hot these issues can get. No one on these threads can sort out the personal issues we all might face and we shouldn’t expect people to. But I love the camaraderie and the respectful interest we all take in each others DC’s and how they get on in this challenging and also joyous world they’re invested in.
i look forward to hearing all about the next stages of courses, new musicals and shows as we head towards summer.

Livingtheirauthenticlife · 23/02/2025 18:15

Hi NYMT’ers! Does anyone have a DC cast in Carousel? We’re new to NYMT. It all very exciting!

minimits · 23/02/2025 18:29

Just caught up with everything and just wanted to add my usual yearly advice for anyone who didn't get in this year. Basically don't give up! My son didn't get at all in for 4 years and was then cast in the next four with a fantastic lead role in two. It was absolutely worth all the disappointment and heart break to get to that point and he would tell you it is absolutely the best company to be part of. It is most definitely not like any local groups, and he's been part of many (and BYMT for 3 years). It has to be national auditions as they genuinely want to give the best of the best who are serious about making this a career, the nearest thing they will get to a professional company experience. Most of the older children then go on to Drama School (or indeed are already at the top ones). The creatives are at the top of their game as well, and they will make vital connections that will serve them well when they enter the professional world.It is most definitely not about the venue, that doesn't really teach them anything. It is about working with a group of like minded talented young people (and working hard) to produce something as part of a team. I'm afraid who comes to see it and where is almost irrelevant. If you look at the alumni I'm sure you will see just how top tier it is. So yes, it's tough to get into and yes there will be disappointment but be under no illusions, it is a horrible industry with more nos than yeses, even after graduating from a top Drama school. It's tough and to be honest, getting no from NYMT and then going back year after year taught him resilience and the understanding sometimes you just don't fit, however good you are. So take heart if your child is disappointed, one day they may be a lead and having to roll with the punches is just part of the precarious world of performing.

Biscuitsneeded · 23/02/2025 18:30

Lionelblair · 23/02/2025 17:06

Re. BYMT and NYMT my DS has done a new musical workshop with NYMT and then did two years in shows with BYMT and now is in a show with NYMT. He is somewhat apprehensive about not choosing BYMT this year - we can’t afford both. The apprehension is largely due to him having had the most brilliant couple of years with BYMT shows. His first year at NYMT was probably slightly marred by him having a bit of homesickness rather than anything to do with the experience itself. It was the first year after covid when things were back on and I think all kids were a bit out of sorts and he was only 12 & had the weirdest couple of years in lockdowns. i think his apprehension is also possibly linked to NYMT having an older feel to it and while he’s very independent he’s aware that many young people will be that bit older than him. However, he’s willing to see how this year goes. He just wants to learn as much as possible and get on stage. Both offer these opportunities in buckets.

The auditions for NYMT are more in depth and he would say that this gives it a more professional feel.

Today has been a real eye opener in terms of how hot these issues can get. No one on these threads can sort out the personal issues we all might face and we shouldn’t expect people to. But I love the camaraderie and the respectful interest we all take in each others DC’s and how they get on in this challenging and also joyous world they’re invested in.
i look forward to hearing all about the next stages of courses, new musicals and shows as we head towards summer.

Edited

Your DS is in Lightning Boy, I believe? Is he about 15/16 now? When the DMs are working again do PM me because I know another young man of the same age who is cast in LB; he's very nice and would I'm sure be happy to chat and break the ice. Also, the LB director makes every show she does HUGE fun. There will be others on here who can attest to that, and I'm sure he will have found the recall a promising sign of what is to come. I think he will have an absolutely brilliant summer!

Biscuitsneeded · 23/02/2025 18:41

@doesanybodyhaveamap This thread is about to get full. Do you want to start a continuation one?

Comefromaway · 23/02/2025 18:49

If NYMT were all about the money then they would be casting as many ensemble members as humanly possible in each show to get those fees.
It costs quite a lot to put on skills workshops and there are no ticket fees to offset whereas it doesn’t cost as much to squeeze in some extra ensemble members who then bring more audience.

Original poster
doesanybodyhaveamap · 23/02/2025 19:08

Biscuitsneeded · 23/02/2025 18:41

@doesanybodyhaveamap This thread is about to get full. Do you want to start a continuation one?

Will do! Link coming soon x

OP posts:
Original poster
doesanybodyhaveamap · 23/02/2025 19:12

New thread:

NYMT/BYMT 2025 (Act Two) http://www.mumsnet.com/Talk/extracurricularr_activities/5281069-nymtbymt-2025-act-two

OP posts:
McVities24 · 28/02/2025 17:18

Hello,

In My DD’s email it said:

Once you accept your place, you will receive three invoices from us through our financial provider Xero, with the due dates above. You can pay by bank transfer, credit card or PayPal. If you can pay by bank transfer, please do – as this reduces the cost to the charity of card payment fees.
we accepted the place but have not received the invoices by xero

We accepted the place but have still not received any invoices. Just wondering if others are still waiting, or should I email to check?

Thank you

DalekFan · 28/02/2025 17:23

McVities24 · 28/02/2025 17:18

Hello,

In My DD’s email it said:

Once you accept your place, you will receive three invoices from us through our financial provider Xero, with the due dates above. You can pay by bank transfer, credit card or PayPal. If you can pay by bank transfer, please do – as this reduces the cost to the charity of card payment fees.
we accepted the place but have not received the invoices by xero

We accepted the place but have still not received any invoices. Just wondering if others are still waiting, or should I email to check?

Thank you

Hi @McVities24, there is a continuation thread here: http://www.mumsnet.com/Talk/extra_curricular_activities/5281069-nymtbymt-2025-act-two

I think all invoices have been sent, so I would suggest you email the enquiries@ email address to check.

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