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The play's the thing for youth in Detour

Young people with passion and something to say are wanted for a theatre group called Detour, sponsored by the PoCoMo Youth Society.

Young people with passion and something to say are wanted for a theatre group called Detour, sponsored by the PoCoMo Youth Society.

Tina D'Amelio, who is leading the group, says 10 young people aged 14 to 18 are needed for the project, which will culminate in a local production in April.

"We feel the youth have a story and a message, and we want to help them get it out there," said D'Amelio.

Previous acting experience is not necessary, D'Amelio said, and dancing or singing experience is an asset, not a requirement because the young people will write the production working with whatever skills and talents they have.

D'Amelio, who is also a School District 43 counsellor, said she took on the opportunity to work with PoCoMo and the Detour group as a way to get back into theatre. Before becoming a counsellor at Sir Frederick Banting middle school, she was an actress and drama teacher, and ran drama clubs.

"When you're an artist and you don't get to do your art, you have to find a way to make it work," D'Amelio said, noting she plans to teach the young people the skills they need to put on their own production.

Youth can be self referred or referred by a school, individual or community organization for the free program, which will rehearse Thursdays from 7 to 9 p.m. at Douglas College, David Lam Campus, C building, Room C1028.

Help may be available for those with transportation issues. The program is partially sponsored by Westminster Savings Credit Union.

For more information, email tina@pocomo.org or call 604-525-1888.

dstrandberg@tricitynews.com