IT is not easy to encourage young people to go to the theatre. In all honesty, it can be quite difficult to entice adults, which is why RE:ACT, a new project being run by Worcester's Swan Theatre, is exceptional.

The exciting scheme is giving youngsters aged between 13 and 16 the opportunity to step forward and write theatre reviews. Not something many get the chance to do.

"This is a group for all young people with an interest in theatre," said Julie Fisher, the RE:ACT organiser. "It is not just those who want to get on the stage.

"It costs very little and is a fantastic chance to go to the theatre and see the things you wouldn't normally see, then to explore your critical thinking and reviewing skills. You'll get to see loads of different styles of theatre and discuss them all in depth."

First up for the RE:ACT group, which had its first meeting back in February, was Marjorie's World Unhinged, a challenging piece of modern theatre dance. That was quickly followed by The Last Pirate, an energetic swashbucking play for children.

Fourteen-year-old Lucy Langdon heard about RE:ACT through her drama group and quickly signed up.

The Elgar Technology College pupil, who wants to be a drama teacher, said: "It's really good because you're meeting different people with the same interests.

"It's really cool - you get to see so much different stuff."

The next show for the RE:ACT members will be the Swan Theatre Amateur Company's production of bittersweet comedy The Dresser. After that they will see Art, A Midsummer Night's Dream and We Will Rock You.

Anyone interested in joining the RE:ACT group can call Worcester Live on 01905 727979 or e-mail her at bridget@worcesterlive.co.uk LAUREN MURRAY