By Harry Mottram: Founded in 1963 the youth theatre company Zenith in Bath bring down the curtain on Barnum, their latest production at the Kingswood Theatre to praise from the audience, the local MP and Georgia Tilley of the Zenith Youth Theatre Company. She said: “It’s great to be able to share our young people’s enthusiasm and commitment with audiences who appreciate the importance of performing arts. Zenith has been entertaining the local community for over 60 years and we are looking forward to continuing this for many years to come.”
Based on the theatrical life of the American impresario Phineas Taylor Barnum the musical combines elements of traditional musical theatre, drama and circus. The musical first staged in 1960 is based on the book by Mark Bramble, with lyrics by Michael Stewart, and music by Cy Coleman and has had successful runs in the West End, Broadway and elsewhere ever since – including of course in Bath.
The Zenith production was also part of the troupe’s 60th anniversary celebrations as the group for young people aged 13-21 continues to produce the performers, singers and actors of the future. Founded as the Bodlets, the inaugral meeting of the junior section of Bath Operatic and Dramatic Society was on 15th May 1963 at The Weston Hotel and the group had it’s first AGM in September 1963.
At the performance of Barnum on 15th February, Wera Hobhouse, Liberal Democrat MP for Bath, joined the cast on stage and said: “It was a joy to attend Zenith Youth Theatre’s rendition of ‘Barnum!’ The commitment and passion demonstrated by these young performers and the supportive staff is truly commendable. The vital role that long-standing organisations like the Zenith Youth Theatre play in nurturing creativity and providing valuable opportunities for our youth to thrive cannot be overstated.”
For more on the theatre group and to join visit https://www.zenithytc.co.uk/
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