AWARD-WINNING amateur theatre groups from across the British Isles and beyond are heading to Bromsgrove this week as the National Drama Festival returns to Artrix Theatre (July 31 to August 3).
This prestigious event will feature 13 acclaimed amateur groups from The Netherlands, Guernsey, the Isle of Man, England, and Scotland, each performing a one-act play that has earned top marks in drama festivals over the past year.
To qualify, each production had to score between 80 and 100 marks from the Guild of Drama Adjudicators (GoDA) during the 2023/24 season.
More than a showcase, the festival serves as a learning platform for both performers and audiences.
After each play, audiences will hear a 10-minute adjudication by GoDA adjudicator Tristan Marshall, who will offer insights into the production’s strengths and areas for improvement.
Attendees can also take part in feedback forums the following morning for deeper discussion and learning.
Complementing the performances are six Studio Spotlight sessions, covering a variety of theatrical disciplines including scriptwriting, puppetry, rehearsal techniques, and community drama.
One highlight is a performance of Shelter by Jenny Derbyshire, winner of the Derek Jacobi Playwriting Competition, who will receive a £250 prize and a publishing deal with Stagescripts.
The festival is organised by the National Drama Festivals Association (NDFA), a registered charity supporting amateur theatre since 1964.
It is sponsored by the National Operatic and Dramatic Association (NODA) and Concord Theatricals.
Audiences can choose individual Play Sessions, each comprising two or three plays, or attend the entire four-day festival.
Visit www.NDFA.co.uk for more information.
