Curtain Up Youth Theatre was founded by Ruth Whelan and Sarah Thomas in 2000, with a passion for giving young people the opportunity to develop their talents and enjoy the magic of musical theatre.

Over the past 26 years, Curtain Up has gone from strength to strength. Today, the group proudly has 85 members, with more than 100 young people currently waiting to join. Each week, members aged 6–19 come together at Maesteg Town Hall, where they develop their skills in singing, acting and dancing, while building confidence, friendships and a love of performing.

Throughout the years, Curtain Up has staged an impressive range of musicals, including The Wizard of Oz, Chicago, Legally Blonde and, most recently, We Will Rock You and Disney’s Finding Nemo Jr — to name just a few. The senior members are now busy rehearsing for their 2027 production of Guys and Dolls, which promises to be another exciting production in the group’s history.

Curtain Up was particularly proud to receive a Youth Award from the High Sheriff of Mid Glamorgan earlier this year, recognising the group’s contribution and service to the local community. The group regularly takes part in local charity events, concerts and community celebrations and has become a much-loved and highly respected organisation within the Llynfi Valley.

Today, Curtain Up is delighted to showcase some of its talented senior members at such a prestigious event. We hope you enjoy their performance.