Think Beyond
Running since 2018, the Think Beyond programs are designed for students with a deep commitment to the performing arts who are ready to push themselves beyond in a fast paced, professional environment. These programs are fast-paced, challenging, and structured to mirror industry expectations.
Two distinct programs offered in alternating years:
- Industry Pathways
- Performance Ensemble
*Programs alternate focus each year between Drama and Musical Theatre
Entry is not guaranteed. Acceptance is by AUDITION and APPLICATION
Further auditions take place during the course for final casting in the production or Industry Night
Places available in 2026:
- Performance Ensemble (Musical Theatre): 40 places across students in Years 11, 12 and first two years post school.
- Industry Pathways (Drama): 32 places across students in Years 11, 12 and first two years post school.
Think Beyond Performance Ensemble
In 2026, The Performance Ensemble will be Musical Theatre.
Students in the Think Beyond Performance Ensemble commit to a year-long class with a production.
The 2026 Production is Hadestown: Teen Edition
Overview:
- Suitable for students with strong prior training and experience
- Designed for those seeking professional-level development
- Students must be prepared to take on homework, assessments, independent work, and respond to constructive critique and industry-level feedback
Course Overview
- Focuses on performance-based training leading to a fully staged production
- Production is performed over a one-weekend season
- Often features non-traditional staging and complex material
- Emphasis on preparedness, pace, and performance skill
- We encourage students to choose this course for the experience and training, not solely based on the production title.
Commitment includes:
- Weekly 2-hour class
- Regular school holiday intensives
- Combined sessions (attendance at both weekly classes when scheduled)
- Tech and dress rehearsals
- Full availability required for performance weekend
- Additional commitments such as homework, costume fittings, promotional shoots, etc.
Students in this course are expected to do work outside of class, learning materials, completing homework, submitting tasks and preparing for in class assessments.
Think Beyond Industry Pathways
In 2026, Industry Pathways will be Drama
Course Overview
- Focused on preparing students for professional careers in the arts
- Includes work on: Resume building, Headshots & showreels, Audition preparation & self-taping, repertoire development and Mock Auditions
- Culminates in a professional-standard Industry Night presentation
- Highly individualised with a strong practical focus
Commitment includes
- Weekly 90-minute class
- One intensive (usually Week 10 & School Holidays)
- Combined sessions (attendance at both classes when scheduled)
- Tech and dress rehearsal process
- Homework and independent preparation required
Students in this course are expected to do work outside of class, learning materials, completing homework, submitting tasks and preparing for in class assessments.
HOW TO APPLY
Applications are now open for both Drama and Musical Theatre 2026 Programs.
Process to apply:
- Group Audition
Sign Up to attend a Group Audition on Wednesday 10 December (Drama) and Thursday 11 December (Musical Theatre). If you are unable to attend these dates, email school@ypt.org.au by Monday 8 December. If you are applying for both programs, you need to attend both auditions.
SIGN UP HERE - Self Tape Audition
Drama: Please submit a 90 second own choice monologue via self tape. Please introduce yourself at the beginning of the tape.
Musical Theatre: Please submit a 90 second own choice song via self tape. Please introduce yourself ar the beginning of the tape.If applying for both program, please complete both self tapes. Submit your self tape on your application form (below).
UPLOAD HERE - Application Form
To be considered for Think Beyond, please also complete the application form. This form is also the same application for the Players Collective Program, of which you can also register your interest. This form must be completed by Friday 13 December at 10:00am.
COMPLETE HERE - Endorsement (for NEW to YPT applicants)
If you are not a current student of YPT, please complete the attached form and upload this as part of your applications.
ACCESS HERE
SELECTION CRITERIA
For applications to be successful in being selected for the program they must:
- Complete the application process above in its entirety
- Meet the standard of skill required for entry into the course
- Meet the standard of dedication, commitment and attendance
- Be judged as suitable on merit from their audition
Should more suitable applicants apply for the course, selection will be based on the YPT Theatre School Policy. In short, Year 12 and Year 11 students will be given priority should they meet the above standard and existing YPT students will be priortised providing they meet the criteria.
