BUDDING theatre critics are invited to take part in a Daily Echo-backed scheme and have the chance to get reviews published.

The Theatre Royal Winchester is launching a Young Critic Scheme.

Some of the UK’s most prominent national theatre critics are joining forces with Theatre Royal Winchester to launch a Young Critics scheme for under 25s in the spring next year.

It will offer a strand of weekly workshops and theatre trips on how to review theatre. Participants will receive mentoring and feedback on their reviews from heavyweights such as Lyn Gardner (The Guardian), Kris Hallet (WhatsonStage) and Mark Shenton (The Stage).

Lyn Gardner said: “I’m delighted to be taking part in the Young Critics scheme at Theatre Royal Winchester. It’s terrific to see a theatre encouraging young people not just to engage with performance but to think and write about it too. Supporting a critical culture is good for theatre as a transferable skill that can be applied in many areas of life and work.”

Carl Woodward, youth theatre manager at Theatre Royal Winchester, added: “I am delighted that these leading lights from the world of theatre journalism are on board for what promises to be a truly exciting project.

The eight-week course begins in February and costs £60 for the full course.

To book call Theatre Royal Winchester box office on 01962 840440.