Playing for Life - A Youth Theatre Practice Symposium

Taking place at TU Dublin, Grangegorman, on 13–14 November 2026, the symposium is delivered in partnership with the TU Dublin School of Media, School of Social Sciences, Law and Education, and the TU Dublin Conservatoire.

Playing for Life will explore how playful, creative practice supports learning, wellbeing, social connection and artistic growth; from early childhood, through youth theatre practice and adulthood, and into later life.

In youth theatre, play is more than an activity, it is a lifelong practice, a way of imagining, connecting and building community. While play is often associated with childhood, this symposium focuses on how it remains a vital activity across all stages of life.

The symposium will bring together artists, educators, youth theatre practitioners, theatre-makers, and arts and community workers for a programme of shared learning, exchange and reflection.

Join Us

Over two days we will share practice and play through workshops, panels, presentations and conversations. With so many opportunities to connect and network, you will have time and space to gather resources, reflect and play!

This symposium is aimed at those already engaged in youth theatre practice, artists, theatre makers, arts and community workers …and anyone working across theatre, education and participatory arts practice with an interest in lifelong creativity.

This event is strictly 18+

This symposium is supported by the Department of Education and Youth and The Arts Council.