I4YPC (Innit for Young People CIO) is an arts organisation that aims to tackle antisocial activity by creating theatre productions and associated workshops for young people aged 12 to 19. The organisation encourages young people to express themselves through arts and education, by providing life-changing opportunities which will overall improve their skills for the future.

I4YPC applied for the grant from the Hays Travel Foundation to fund the ‘Innit Choir’ which is a weekly choir specifically for young males in Greater Manchester, where they are given the opportunity to perform in productions at renowned venues such as The Lowry in Salford.

To form the choir, the organisation reached out to groups of young people who were familiar to I4YPC as well as those from local youth organisations with the intention to engage young people who were living in disadvantage and otherwise couldn’t afford the opportunity to take part in a professional performance. To prepare for performances, the choir members got to learn many skills such as breathing techniques, musical direction and group singing.

Following weeks of rehearsals, the choir was able to perform in a professional production at The Lowry, Salford, where they formed the leading chorus as part of a bigger production. After a successful run at The Lowry, members of the choir have gone from strength to strength with some working as ambassadors for I4YPC, and one forming a band after discovering their musical talent.

‘Innit Choir’ overall has and continues to be a great success for young males in and around the Greater Manchester where they have found a sense of belonging and have developed extreme pride in the choir. With the help of I4YPC, and funding from the Hays Travel Foundation, doors have been able to open for young people that were previously closed.