The Barn Theatre in Welwyn Garden City is set to host the 91st annual Welwyn Drama Festival from 18th to 23rd May 2026. This longstanding community tradition will feature amateur theatre groups performing a series of one-act plays each evening, showcasing local talent and creativity.
Performances will take place nightly at 7.30pm, with the exception of the final evening on Saturday, 23rd May, which begins at 7pm. The Barn Theatre, a historic venue located on Handside Lane, features a recently refurbished 122-seat auditorium where attendees can watch two or three short productions each night.
The competitive nature of the festival involves marks awarded by Dr Tristan Marshall, a professional adjudicator from the Guild of Drama Adjudicators. Dr Marshall, who also serves as a lecturer at Shakespeare’s Globe, will evaluate teams on their acting, production, stage presentation, and dramatic achievement. Participating groups include the Barn Theatre Club, Marlborough Science Academy, Brightlight Theatre, and several others from across the region.
The winning team will be awarded the prestigious Welwyn Cup and will earn the opportunity to perform at the National Drama Festivals Association event. Additionally, the Behrens-Steinfeld Trophy will be presented to recognise the most complete and imaginative approach to direction. The festival, which began in 1929, has continued annually for over nine decades, with the exception of the Second World War years, remaining a staple of the local arts calendar.
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