FUNDING cuts cannot suppress them; the loss of their mentors cannot stop them.
The Mid Powys Youth Theatre have grabbed their summer production by the scruff of the neck and have taken control.
In the wake of stark funding cuts to Theatr Powys, which saw the company of adult actors fold last year, the younger contingent lost their mentors and many older members whom they had come to rely on for advice and leadership.
But far from being cowed under the weight of new responsibilities - having to create a production from start to finish, on their own - they are thriving.
“There was some confusion when Theatr Powys lost its Arts Council Wales funding,” said Rhiannon Ashcroft, former MPYTer, co-writer and director of this year’s summer show.
“We weren’t sure what was happening with Powys County Council. We are still receiving funding from them but I think it is less than it was.
“We haven’t got a dedicated costume maker or technical support, so the cast are doing it.
"We have everything in hand but it’s what several paid people would have done before,” she added.
Cast members have taken on a host of new responsibilities for the summer show, including lighting and music, which has been taken over by Ellen Jordan.
“In some ways it’s a good thing,” said Kristen Treen, fellow writer and director.
“But previously we had Theatr Powys acting as role models, subtley mentoring, and that advisory role is deeply missed.”
It was terrible losing Theatr Powys, said Rhiannon.
“But it’s happened and we want to continue in a positive way.”
For the full story including interviews with the cast and crew, pick up a copy of this week's County Times.
Their play takes place at the Drama Centre, Tremont Road, Llandrindod Wells this weekend (August 25-26) at 8pm.
There will be another performance on October 1 at the Wyeside, Builth Wells, which will open Powys Arts Month.