Intermission Youth has announced three acclaimed actors as its newest ambassadors: Olivier Award-winner Kathryn Hunter, BAFTA-winning Malachi Kirby (A Thousand Blows, Small Axe, Roots), and stage and screen star Indra Ové (Interview with a Vampire, Jerusalem, RSC).
The charity, which transforms young lives through drama and Shakespeare, already counts Naomie Harris and Danny Sapani among its supporters.
Kathryn Hunter said:
“Intermission Youth is many things, not least a family, so when I was invited to become an ambassador, I was honoured and delighted. The company’s work is giving young people tools to make positive choices to become the best version of themselves through theatre and Shakespeare, through shared values and the inestimable value of teamwork. I have been part of the process and witnessed firsthand extraordinary talent and groundbreaking work. I look forward to inviting an ever-expanding audience to share in the work and supporting the future of the charity’s visionary mission.”
Malachi Kirby commented:
“Intermission has been on my radar for over a decade, and the work they do is incredibly special. Creating wonderfully entertaining evenings of theatre is one thing — but they’re also transforming lives, giving young people a safe space to be themselves and transcend their foundations. I’m truly honoured and excited to formally advocate for Intermission as an ambassador.”
Indra Ové added:
“I am thrilled to be part of this brilliant grass roots charity. I was first introduced to Intermission Youth by Mark Rylance. I was totally taken aback by their incredible productions of Shakespeare’s plays, and the vital way this organisation empowers young people through the performing arts, developing their creativity and confidence, broadening their perspectives and person growth and community. And their absolute dedication to diversity and inclusion. All of which is so important right now. I really look forward to sharing and supporting the work, and the young people in their care.”
Led by Artistic Director Darren Raymond, Intermission Youth has reached over 10,000 young Londoners since 2008. This year, Raymond received Shakespeare’s Globe’s Sam Wanamaker Award for the charity’s pioneering work.
The announcement coincides with the launch of Intermission Youth’s first membership scheme, aimed at raising vital funds to provide an accessible alternative to traditional drama schools.
This month, the charity presents its annual production, Comedy of Errors Remixed, at London’s Courtyard Theatre until 20 December. The reimagined Shakespeare classic follows two asylum seekers arriving in the UK, a theme resonating deeply with the current cohort.
More information can be found here
