Local youth are being encouraged to get involved with theatre from a younger age.

Goodger Pink Family Theatre is offering classes to help bring children out of their shells.

Samantha Duff, founder and artistic producer of Goodger Pink, says there's a variety of benefits of getting involved with theatre that extend beyond confidence and creativity.

"What they learn from exploring different characters and different emotional situations, the listening skills they develop through improv exercises and the real human emotional connections they experience when working on a scene with a fellow actor, these kids take these experiences and skills through life."

Duff says early exposure to theatre can help development through to adulthood.

"The earlier on we can be developing these skills with the kids, confidence, listening skills and such, the more it will just grow with them as they become adults. How many adults do we know that have a true fear of public speaking? That can get in the way of careers and social life."

Goodger Pink will be offering youth drama programs in the new year for ages 6-9 as well as 10 and up.

To learn more about the programs click here.