No Easter Festival of Plays in 2026 but One Act Plays Will Be Held
The Manx Amateur Drama Federation (MADF) has announced it will not hold its Easter Festival of Plays in 2026 after celebrating its 75th anniversary this year. Instead, the federation plans to take a year off and return with the full festival in 2027.
One Act Plays Festival in March
Despite the break, MADF will continue hosting the popular Festival of One Act Plays from March 12 to 14 at the Erin Arts Centre. The federation is inviting drama societies from both the UK and the Isle of Man to submit short plays for performance and adjudication.
Adjudication and Awards
The plays will be judged by Sue Doherty, an experienced adjudicator from the Guild of Drama Adjudicators. Prizes will be awarded for Best Play, Best Actor, and Best Dramatic Moment on the final night of the festival.
“Sue brings more than 40 years of experience in arts education and theatre to this year’s festival.”
Sue Doherty, Head of Performing Arts at St Julie’s High School in Liverpool, has championed access to the arts for young people, with many of her students progressing to prestigious drama schools such as RADA, Guildhall, and LIPA, and gaining recognition including BAFTA winner Jodie Comer.
She has also collaborated with the Royal Shakespeare Company, led City of Culture projects, and developed impactful verbatim theatre addressing social issues.
Summary
The Manx Amateur Drama Federation pauses its Easter Festival of Plays in 2026 but supports drama with its One Act Plays festival featuring expert adjudication and awards for outstanding performances.