TheatreFest 2026

Show Bio

TheatreFest brings together students, teachers, and theatre professionals from across Essex for schools and colleges to devise a themed 10 minute theatre piece to be showcased on the Mercury stage.

This year, the groups are devising pieces based on our upcoming production, Caroline – A New Musical, which explores the story of Radio Caroline and the Swinging Sixties – a decade that well and truly rocked!

Participation in the festival fosters respect, excitement, artistic development, teamwork, problem-solving and a sense of community.

Are you a school or college looking to take part?

You can find out more about TheatreFest here.

Applications are open until all our slots are filled or until Fri 22 May.

To register your interest for TheatreFest 2026, please email [email protected].

Line-up

Tue 23 Jun
DanceEast  (Centre for Advanced Training)
The Thomas Lord Audley School – Dance
The Thomas Lord Audley School – Drama

Wed 24 Jun
The Gilberd School
Paxman Academy
Gosfield School

Plus a performance of The Summoning of Alice Lackland – a new mini play performed by Manningtree High School at both shows.

Additional information

Please note that this is a series of short performances by schools and colleges from across Essex and East Anglia.

This is an exciting event, designed to support and encourage young people.