What you need to know.
What are the restrictions?
Plays that may cause offense are not eligible for entry.
The performance must last between 20 and 55 minutes.
All plays entering the All-England Theatre Festival must have at least two speaking parts.
The proscenium arch is only 16ft wide
How long do we have to set up and strike our set?
You will have 10 minutes to set up and 5 minutes to strike your set. These times are in addition to your performance time.
Penalties will be applied for exceeding time limits for performance, setting up, or striking.
How do we sort out our technical requirements?
The lighting setup will be done prior to the festival, on the Friday evening, so some compromises may be necessary to accommodate all performances.
Will we be able to operate lights and sound ourselves?
No, a lighting technician will be provided for performances to ensure that groups unfamiliar with the lighting desk aren’t penalised.
We can also provide a sound technician, but you may choose to operate the sound yourself.
Cues can be given either by standing behind the operator or via headsets from the stage.
Do we get any rehearsal time?
You will have a 30-minute slot on the day of your performance for your get-in and final adjustments. During this time, the group may use the stage as needed.
Do we get our own dressing room?
Yes, you will have your own dressing room.
Groups performing in the afternoon must vacate the room immediately following the adjudication to make space for the evening groups.
Do the cast get complimentary tickets?
Yes, each cast member receives a complimentary ticket (up to 8 for adult groups and 16 for youth groups).
Up to four members of the technical team may also receive a complimentary ticket.
These tickets can be used to watch other plays in the same session and attend the adjudication.
Who will the audience be?
The audience will consist of members and supporters from other groups, as well as members of the public who have been attracted by the festival publicity.
You are encouraged to bring your own supporters to watch your play, as well as the other plays in your session and throughout the weekend.
When are the results announced?
Winners of the various trophies will be announced and presented on Sunday, along with the winners of the peripatetic festival.
There may be two competitive plays prior to the presentation.
To secure a seat, tickets should be booked in advance. It is desirable for award recipients to be present to collect their trophies.
Trophies are held for one year.