Young and Hungry Ambassadors

• Two senior students from each high school around the greater Wellington Region are chosen each year to be Ambassadors for their school. Supported by the local theatres, arts companies and the Wellington City Council, the students attend a wide variety of live theatre for free. The students report back to their peers and schools on their experience and are encouraged to write reviews of the shows they see.
• In 2008 there were 32 Ambassadors from 16 schools
• 2009 applications are now closed.
• The Ambassadors are chosen by the Schools Arts Co-ordinators in conjunction with the Young & Hungry Executive Officer
• Theatres and industry organisations committed to this programme comprise of: Downstage Theatre, Toi Whakaari: NZ Drama School, Circa Theatre, BATS Theatre, Taki Rua, St James/Opera House, Royal New Zealand Ballet, The Improvisors, Footnote Dance, Black Grace, Indian Ink and, of course, Young & Hungry
• The Ambassadors go to the theatre for free & partake in forums with the actors and crew, plus backstage tours and venue visits where possible

Why have Ambassadors?

• Audience Development - This programme is designed to encourage more young people to attend theatre and live performances. The opportunity to be exposed to a wide range of theatrical performances will inspire those who may wish to undertake a career in this field, and or develop the discerning audience of the future.
• Education - educating young people about the arts empowers them. In a media saturated environment, theatre can provide dramatic encounters that are live, immediate & relevant.
• Each ambassador acts as the link between theatre organisations and their school. They:
  - Give feedback to their drama teacher about the production
  - Are responsible for the distribution of publicity material within their school
  - Act as a liaison for any discounted tickets prices or specials that may arise within the community
  - Take their excitement, enthusiasm and love of theatre to their peers
  
• They provide a personal connection to high schools within the Wellington region. Theatre organisations will be able to communicate directly with local teenagers.
• As we commence our sixth year, the programme continues to be a vehicle for audience expansion.