14th-16th September 2023 - ADC Theatre, Cambridge

A modern drama festival, celebrating local amateur theatre

ABOUT US

The Cambridge Festival of Drama is an annual competitive festival for one-act plays held at the famous ADC Theatre, with fringe events aimed at enabling participants to learn new skills and network with other groups.

In the space of a few days our audiences can experience a range of plays and genres – from comedy to tragedy, fantasy to history – all performed by local adult and junior groups from around the Cambridge area.

We employ a professional adjudicator to provide feedback on all the plays, culminating in an awards presentation on the final night where teams and individuals are awarded for their achievements.

News & information

See some of our past award winners

At the end of every Festival we ask the Adjudicator to present awards to the groups or individuals that have stood out during the week.

Meet the adjudicator - Tristan Marshall

Read more about the adjudicator who will be joining us in 2023 to provide critique of the plays taking part in the Festival.

Dates for the 2023 Festival announced

The 2023 Cambridge Festival of Drama will take place on the 14th-16th September 2023 at the ADC Theatre, Park Street, Cambridge

Apply to take part

Applications for the 2023 Festival are now closed and we have finalised the programme. Please see our news section for further details.

Information for groups

A handy guide on what a Festival involves, the kinds of things you’ll need to do, and tips on how to make the most of your experience.

View the archives

Ever wondered who won the backstage award back in 2017? Visit our archives for a trip down memory lane, and if you’ve got anything to share – let us know.

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WHERE ARE WE?

The festival is held at the ADC Theatre, Park Street, Cambridge, CB5 8AS

What are people saying?

Where else can you feel complete elation and catharsis, to utter heartbreak in a single evening? You can certianly expect variety and talent at the Cambridge Festival of Drama!

Tessa Wagnall - audience member

We love taking part in drama festivals because it takes our directors, cast and crew compeltely out of their comfort zone. We always learn something new from our experience.