Where Young Talent Takes Centre Stage
A competition for young people from across the United Kingdom.
A new competition for young people from 9 to 19 years old
Have you got what it takes to be crowned the best actor in the country?
Run in conjunction with Trafalgar Entertainment, Methuen Drama and the Federation of Drama Schools.
There are four categories to choose from: Contemporary, Classical, Screen, and Devised – and four age groups, so you’ll be competing with others your own age.
You can enter through your school, youth theatre group, or independently.
Perform on a West End stage.
Win amazing prizes.
Grow as an artist and develop your craft.
Entry for NYM 2026 will be open from January 26th and will close on April 5th 2026.
Our Partners
What are the National Youth Monologues?
The National Youth Monologues are on the hunt for the most powerful monologues, performed by the most talented young actors — and we're giving you the chance to have your work seen online and live at our National Final on a West End stage!
The competition is run in conjunction with Trafalgar Entertainment, Methuen Drama and the Federation of Drama Schools, and gives you the opportunity to perform and watch the UK’s most exciting solo actors do their thing.
- Want to perform bold, up-to-date pieces from today’s leading playwrights?
- Fancy flexing your classical muscless and bringing Shakespeare’s words to life?
- Love the screen? Show off your skills with iconic speeches from film and TV.
- Or maybe you want to create something original — devise or write your own monologue?
With the National Youth Monologues, you can do any of these — or all four! Enter as many categories as you like.
Take your shot at becoming a Regional Winner in your age group and category — or go all the way and be crowned a National Winner.
With expert industry judges and support from some amazing organisations, the National Youth Monologues gives you the platform to show the UK just how talented you are.
Training and Courses
Looking to sharpen your skills and grow as a performer?
We offer fantastic opportunities for young actors to take part in high-quality courses, training, and development – all designed to help you strengthen your technique and craft.
If you're hungry to keep improving, check out The Studio – our monthly performance hub. It’s your space to perform regularly, evolve your skills, and connect with a supportive community of like-minded young actors.
Bursaries Available
The competition is open to everyone – no matter your background or financial situation.
We believe talent should have no barriers, so entry is free for any young person receiving Free School Meals. If you're selected for the Live National Final, you can also apply for a travel bursary to help cover the cost of getting to London for the event.
Find full details on each entry page.
