The Animals Performed By Waterford Youth Arts
NT Connections
Student teacher Sam arrives at Redhill Youth Custody Unit determined to spark something in the young residents through philosophy.
The group push back—until they slowly begin to feel challenged, seen, and empowered in unexpected ways. But the hope Sam offers is fragile, especially for tough‑talking Gee, who is nearing release and secretly terrified of what comes next.
The Animals shines a light on education inside the youth custody system and the intense, often hidden challenges these young people face as they try to imagine a future beyond its walls.
Sean Buckley is a British‑Irish playwright and screenwriter whose debut Matches for Monkeys won the Verity Bargate Award. A former RSC Pearson Writer in Residence and Royal Court Young Writer, his work includes Between Dog and Wolf, Smithereens, and the BBC‑awarded audio drama Stone Baby. He wrote for three series of Skins and the BAFTA‑nominated, International Emmy‑winning Responsible Child. He also wrote and directed the short film Polar Bear.
The National Theatre’s Connections festival is a flagship celebration of youth theatre, showcasing exceptional young talent from across the UK.
Each year, the National Theatre commissions a brandnew collection of plays written specifically for young performers, pairing some of the country’s most exciting contemporary writers with the theatremakers of the future.
Once again, the Lyric Theatre is delighted to host the National Theatre Connections Festival, welcoming seven outstanding Young Theatre groups from across Ireland. Together, they bring fresh voices, bold stories, and dynamic new work to the stage in a vibrant celebration of creativity and collaboration.