YOUNG people who want to get involved with performing arts, whether behind the scenes or on stage, can take part in Blast 2000 at The Playhouse in Harlow, from Sunday, July 23, to Saturday, July 29.

Supported by Harlow and Epping Forest councils, the Playhouse and Epping Forest Arts will present a week of workshops culminating in a final performance on the Saturday evening.

Working with a team of professionals, 50 young people aged 11 to 18 can choose workshops covering a wide range of skills from set design, lighting and sound to marketing and stage management, along with the old staples ? acting, singing and dancing.

The performance will be based around mythological tales.

The team of professional artists leading Blast 2000 workshops includes Epping Forest Arts choreographer Joanne Leighton, composer Michael Szpakowski, and artist Simon Boyce.

Blast 2000 is aimed at a wide range of young people, from those who do not have any experience in theatre arts, to those who want to build on their skills in the creative field.

Application forms to join the workshops are available from The Playhouse, Epping Forest Arts, and libraries. For more details, and to register, ring Ann Barnham at The Playhouse on 01279 446760, ext 240.