MEMBERS of Malvern Theatres Young Company are learning fest what it takes to become successful actors, as they prepare to tread the boards at Edinburgh Fringe.

The company is appearing at the Fringe with its production of Antigone, the famous tragedy by ancient Greek playwright Sophocles.

Cast member Vianne Furey, 17, said: “No other experiences that I’ve had have been as intense and rewarding as these with MYTC. What’s surprised me is how quickly a piece can be taken from nought to sixty and still be top-quality theatre.”

Rhys Harris Clarke, 17, said: “The training is very intense and full on, but it’s 100 per cent worthwhile as it prepares you for what life will be like as an actor. You need to be on your toes at all times.”

The Edinburgh transfer is an exciting experience for everyone involved. Not only will they be performing in the world’s biggest arts festival, but the cast will also be able to enjoy additional learning opportunities, including professional workshops and a free pass to watch other Fringe shows.

Toby Burchell, 21, said: “The style of training that MTYC provides has given me an amazing insight and helped prepare me for working in the industry.

“The approach taken is no different to what you can expect when working on a professional show. We’re incredibly lucky to have an opportunity of this scale offered to us in Malvern.”

Fellow cast member Ben Mowbray, 20, is using his extensive MTYC experience - this is his eighth production - to develop his own career and give back to the local community.

He’s already teaching children, directing regional shows, and is a trustee of the rural theatre touring scheme, Arts Alive.

Roma Farnell, 17, is similarly making the most of her skills to both produce and direct shows at John Masefield High School in Ledbury.

Emma Maggs, Head of Development, said: “We’re proud to offer this unrivalled experience and we firmly believe the opportunity will help these aspiring actors enormously as they commence their careers in the creative industries.”

Many of this year’s cast members have already secured places at top colleges including Arts Educational, Italia Conti, East 15 Acting School, the Royal Welsh College of Music, and the National Youth Theatre.

Antigone is at Malvern on Wednesday to Friday, August 8-10, before transferring to Edinburgh. Malvern tickets are free from malvern-theatres.co.uk.