The activities of the Workshop are based on its weekly classes, and its six annual productions. The classes are mainly concerned with the techniques of acting, but other elements of Stagecraft (Fencing/Mime/Singing etc.) are introduced as appropriate, depending upon upcoming productions. The Season of the six productions commence in September and are mounted approximately every 8 weeks ending in July. These invariably contain a Musical, a Shakespeare, a Revue and at least one which requires a considerable amount of Stage Fencing (in order to expose the talents of those especially skilled in this area). Total membership varies around 70 teenagers, and the Workshop aims to involve every member in at least 3 of each Season's productions. It is not possible to strictly limit the number of teenagers involved as, being primarily a sociological organisation, the Workshop is committed to accept referrals of teenagers by the Social Services Dept., the Probation Service and the Police Juvenile Crime Unit. Each 'operational year' is broken down into 3 terms for which a fee of £25.00 is charged, though the Governors are sometimes asked to waive this for families suffering financial hardship. The Workshop operates with only one special rule. Believing that the only effective form of leadership is by setting an example, it is left to the older members to guide the younger. The only special rule is that members are forbidden to chew gum on the premises. A final thought; the Workshop believes in Mystery, that it is fundamental to human life. Thus, only members (and former members) attend classes or rehearsals. Our Website, and our Performances, reveal all that outsiders are permitted to know. (This annoys the pants off some parents). The reason, is the Workshop's attempt to build and nurture that creative risk-taking environment which ultimately leads to exciting performances. The Workshop believes that fear, in its various forms, limit most human lives to only 10% of their potential; hence, it strives to create a safety-net wherein risk-taking which, in the outside world would attract ridicule (a most deadly poison for a teenager), is welcomed for the guts it displays to try out something new. Action - talk is so cheap and getting cheaper - stretching the imagination, recognising that only a lack of will, and of commitment to Try, limits becoming 'as big as you can be', shapes the Workshop's working environment. Teenagers (aged 13-19 only) who wish to be involved with our activities should telephone: 01422 323688 or 01422 250475 or send us an e-mail to mike@actorsworkshop.org.uk for information.