Welcome to takeover 2025!
TakeOver is a week-long theatre festival run by final year performance students at York St John University. The students take over York Theatre Royal and work as producers, production managers, front of house staff and more!
We have something for everyone whether you want to dance the night away or just enjoy a sit down evening. What are you waiting for, get your sparkly shoes on and come join us for a week long party.
Mission & Values
Why TakeOver matters
TakeOver exists to give young people the opportunity to gain valuable real life work experience along with support from professional industry mentoring, while having the freedom to programme and produce a large-scale arts festival.
We inspire and cultivate the potential of young people in our community through the creative arts and uphold our reputation nationally as an innovator in the field.
What TakeOver does
Talent – recognises the talent and potential of young people, emerging young professionals and companies
Arts – creates an innovative and diverse arts festival programme
Knowledge – develops professional skills and knowledge with support from York Theatre Royal staff
Engage – engages with as wide an audience as possible – old and new
Outreach – widens participation within the arts and the York Theatre Royal community
Valuable – delivers a valuable experience for all participants and mentors and ensures TakeOver is a valuable addition to York Theatre Royal’s programme of work
Experience – offers real professional industry experience and mentorship
Relationships – develops relationships within York Theatre Royal , York’s community and the arts sector.
“TakeOver has completely changed my outlook on what I want to do with my future as it made me realise I need to contribute something positive to society. I really cannot tell you how much I have learned and how grateful I am.”
TakeOver Participant