The CANVAS Takeover Event is a birthday party like no other, with a full day of workshops, crafts and party vibes for all ages. The day is completely FREE (with a Pay What You Can structure) and even includes snacks. Places are free to reserve through the Derby Theatre website. Please note that each attendee requires their own booking, according to age group.
Party Sessions:
- 0–5 years: 10am – 11.30am
- 6–9 years: 12pm – 1.30pm
- 10–12 years: 2pm – 3.30pm
- 13–25 years: 5pm – 6.30pm
The celebrations culminate in a Youth Takeover Performance at 6.30pm, spotlighting the talent, creativity and energy of Derby’s young people. The specially curated evening event will feature a vibrant mix of styles and voices, showcasing the next generation of artists, leaders and changemakers. Tickets are FREE / Pay What You Can and can be booked through the Derby Theatre website.
Young people who have been part of the CANVAS Project said:
“CANVAS is an amazing opportunity for young people and has positively impacted my life in many ways. It’s allowed me to meet people with the same interests from all walks of life, grow in confidence, and experience things I would never have been able to — all completely for free.”
“CANVAS means a lot to me. Having performance and workshop opportunities has been great. I hope that CANVAS lives on.”
“It’s a place where young people come together to help shape the future of the creative industry by sharing our ideas.”
“I think CANVAS is an amazing opportunity to get involved in the arts, make friends, and connect with people.”
The CANVAS Takeover is one of many special events marking Derby Theatre’s landmark 50th anniversary, celebrating five decades of creativity, community and performance.
For more information and CANVAS TAKEOVER updates, visit the Derby Theatre website Derby Theatre’s 50th Anniversary CANVAS Takeover – Derby Theatre or follow us on social media (Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube – @derbytheatre), and CANVAS Derby Official Instagram @canvasderby
Line Up of Acts
Main Performance Acts
Mortis Prayer – Band
A young metal band from Long Eaton, Mortis Prayer features Ivan (vocals), Jacob (drums), William (bass), and James and Maxwell (guitar).
Bethany Scrimshaw – Musical Theatre Performer
Bethany is a passionate musical theatre performer who brings energy and heart to every performance.
Vespa – Dancer
Derby-based dancer exploring contemporary movement with rawness and uniqueness in his choreography.
Phoebe Reilly – Actor/Spoken Word Artist
Actor and spoken word artist with a passion for real-life stories, justice, and storytelling as advocacy.
Daybreak – Band
A two-piece rock band from Chaddesden, aiming to bring rock n’ roll back to the mainstream.
Staci Gilbert – Lyrical Dancer
A visually impaired dancer who has represented England at world championships, inspiring others to embrace the arts.
Libby Shaw – Opera Singer
Derbyshire-based opera singer with a love of performing classics like Ave Maria and O Mio Babbino Caro.
MSDC – Youth Dance Company
A Derby youth company for ages 11–18 blending technique, creativity, and choreography for national events.
Iris Prism – Drag Queen
Genre-bending drag performer delivering powerful pop hooks and ballads with a magnetic stage presence.
Leland Franklin – Guitarist/Singer
Derby singer-songwriter performing acoustic covers and originals in a folk/indie style.
Eleanor Green – Performing Artist
Performer using the stage to express herself and celebrate her personal growth and resilience.
Romy – Singer/Songwriter
16-year-old BBC Introducing artist blending pop, pop-punk and folk, with charity singles and festival performances across the Midlands.
Izzy Walker – Acro Dancer
A passionate acro dancer and member of Canvas and Derby Youth Theatre, brings her powerful solo ‘Spirit’ to Derby Theatre’s 50th Anniversary celebrations. Combining the strength of acrobatics with the artistry of dance, Izzy’s performance is a vibrant showcase of skill, expression, and her deep love for the stage.
Frosa – Singer
Frosa has lived in Derby for 8 years, she loves to embrace new opportunities and share her Roma heritage and Romanian roots through singing and dancing
Vanessa – Singer
A young artist blending jazz, funk, R&B and opera, using music to share her story and connect with audiences.
Open Mic Acts
Poppy and Eliza Harvey
Sisters with a shared love for musicals, performing together for the first time. Poppy studies drama, music and performing arts, while Eliza continues to perform in school productions.
Kiera Harber
Performer with a passion for musical theatre, dancing since age 2 and singing since 10. Loves using performance to express creativity and support community wellbeing.
RU3
Local music and theatre producer who recently released their debut EP Nostalgialite to 2,500+ plays online. Passionate about music production and supporting others through theatre.
Laura Anne
16-year-old Derby-based performer who plays piano, guitar, and dances. Loves theatre and has been performing since the age of 3.