HEREFORD’S Courtyard Theatre has received a £23,000 Heritage Lottery grant that will be used to engage members of its Senior Youth Theatre with the county’s rich theatrical heritage.

A group of 25 youngsters aged 13-15 will take part in a project revolving around the life of famous 18th century impresario David Garrick.

Working in partnership with local library and museum services youth theatre members will unearth information about both Garrick and the city’s former theatres.

Activities will include a trip to London where they will see the History of the Theatre and Performance collections at Victoria & Albert Museum and enjoy a show at the Theatre Royal in Drury Lane, once managed by Garrick.

The group will then produce a new drama based on David Garrick and his life, to be performed at The Courtyard and community venues in spring 2011.

A permanent legacy to Garrick will be created in the form of a sculpture or art piece for display at The Courtyard.