National Youth Theatre - Performing Arts for Kids & Youth in Auckland
Inspiring the next generation of performers through musical theatre.
The National Youth Theatre (NYT) is one of New Zealand’s leading performing arts training organisations for children and young people. Based in Auckland, NYT offers a range of dynamic programmes that give young performers the opportunity to grow their confidence, develop their talents, and take part in full-scale musical productions.
Whether your child dreams of being on stage or simply wants to build confidence in a fun, creative environment, NYT provides an inclusive and supportive community for young people to thrive.
Current Auckland Intensive Programmes
Disney's The Little Mermaid
Be part of NYT’s major 2026 production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid. Open to young performers aged 7 to 21, this full-scale musical will feature dazzling costumes, choreography, and live performance opportunities. Participants receive weekly training in singing, acting, and dancing, culminating in a professional-level stage show.
📍Auckland Location: Rehearsals: Bayfield School, Herne Bay | Auckland School Performances | Public Performance: Aotea Centre
🗓️ Currently enrolling – Orientation Day is 14 February 2026 and first rehearsal date is on 15 February 2026.
🔗 Learn more & register
Current Auckland School Holiday Programmes
AllStars Holiday Programme
Designed for children and teens aged 7 to 16 years, the All Stars school holiday programme offers training with New Zealand’s National Youth Theatre in acting, vocal/singing and dancing. Sessions are held in small age-related groups to ensure that everyone receives quality tuition. The course builds up to two performances of a special revue shows for family and friends.
📍 Locations: Rose Centre, Belmont | Grey Lynn School
🗓️ Enrolment is open for the January 2026 school holiday “Summer Showstoppers” AllStars programme
🔗 Discover more
Current Auckland After School Classes
Triple Threat Weekly Musical Theatre Classes
A fun and engaging weekly programme focusing on the three key disciplines of musical theatre: acting, singing, and dancing. The classes work in two age groups, 9 to 12 years and 13 to 18 years. Beginners with no previous experience are welcome to attend This course builds strong foundational skills and confidence for the stage.
📍 Auckland Locations: TAPAC, Western Springs | The Rose Centre, Belmon | War Memorial Hall, Takapuna
🗓️Ongoing enrolment
🔗 More information and register
Acting Up Weekly Drama Classes
For those keen to hone their dramatic skills, Acting Up is a dedicated acting programme with a focus on improvisation, character building, and stage technique. The classes work in two age groups, 9 to 12 years and 13 to 18 years, within these groups the NYT tutors work to ensure everyone is stretched to achieve their full potential. This is a non-musical option for kids and teens who love storytelling and performance.
📍 Location: TAPAC, Western Springs, Auckland
🗓️ Term-based classes
🔗 Explore the programme
Why choose NYT programmes?
Inclusive, welcoming environment for all children and teens
Professional directors, choreographers and tutors
Training and performance in real theatre venues
Builds creativity, collaboration and self-confidence
Visit the National Youth Theatre website to view full programme details, auditions, term dates and show information:
🔗 nyt.nz
Upcoming Public Shows performed by the National Youth Theatre
The Wizard of Oz
📍 Location: Aotea Centre
🗓️ Performances: 27 to 30 November 2025
🔗Find out more and book tickets