YOUNG actors proved 'the show must go on' as they put on a full lockdown production from the comfort of their own homes.

Members of Kayos Theatre Company swapped the Beacon Arts Centre stage for their bedrooms as they performed '10 Ways to Survive Life in a Quarantine' online via Zoom.

Not only did the group have around 50 audience members tune in to watch, instead of charging for tickets, they asked viewers to make a donation to Ardgowan Hospice.

Kevin Jannetts, artistic director at Kayos, said: "We had so much planned for this year, however most things have been shelved for the foreseeable.

"So many of our members were missing each other, so we decided to come together and perform this Don Zolidis play.

"We have performed three of his plays before, so it was a perfect fit for the group as they are familiar with his work.

"Rather than charge a ticket price, we decided to ask viewers to make a donation to the hospice instead.

"It was great as people who perhaps wouldn't otherwise be able to come to our productions, such as family members from further afield, were able to tune in.

"We'll be uploading the whole production to YouTube soon, so hopefully the more people who watch it, the more donations it will generate."

The youngsters had full direction of the production - casting it, changing things to suit and holding virtual rehearsals to help them perfect their performance.

For one member, the play was even more memorable as it was her first ever performance in a Kayos production.

Iona Tormey, a University of Strathclyde student, relished the opportunity to participate in the Zoom performance with her fellow theatre group members.

Iona told the Tele: "I've always loved music - I played in Inverclyde Music Service bands while I was in school and I currently play percussion in the Strathclyde University Concert Band.

"I really enjoyed studying Higher drama in my sixth year at St Columba's and wanted to continue this interest.

"After I was lucky enough to perform in the band with Kayos Youth Theatre at the Beacon and the Edinburgh Fringe, I was eager to be part of their shows again - so when the opportunity came up to participate in '10 Ways to Survive the Quarantine', I knew it would be great fun.

"It's a little strange performing over Zoom, but it's a new challenge, and we all had great fun.

"I'm looking forward to being part of future Kayos productions."

The performance was the second moment of note for the youth theatre group during lockdown - as last month they received a £10,000 grant that will enable them to create two brand new pieces of street theatre.

Kevin, who has been within the role at Kayos for four years, added: "The grant has given us something positive to look forward to when we are able to get back together.

"We can't reschedule all of our 2020 plans unfortunately, as there wouldn't be enough time.

"But we're really excited to begin work on our new street theatre productions."

*To watch '10 Ways to Survive Life in a Quarantine', visit Kayos Theatre Company on Facebook.