No Easter Festival of Plays in 2026 but One Act Plays Will Be Held
The Manx Amateur Drama Federation (MADF) celebrated its 75th anniversary this year and has announced it will not hold its Easter Festival of Plays in 2026. Instead, MADF will take a one-year break and promises to return with the full festival in 2027.
Festival of One Act Plays in March
Despite the pause in the main festival, MADF will continue with a Festival of One Act Plays at the Erin Arts Centre from March 12 to 14. Drama societies from the UK and the island are invited to enter short plays that will be performed and adjudicated by Sue Doherty of the Guild of Drama Adjudicators.
Festival Details and Prizes
- Performances: One act plays, March 12-14 at Erin Arts Centre
- Adjudicator: Sue Doherty, with over 40 years of arts education and theatre experience
- Prizes: Best Play, Best Actor, and Best Dramatic Moment, awarded on the final night
About the Adjudicator, Sue Doherty
"As Head of Performing Arts at St Julie’s High School in Liverpool, Sue championed access to the arts for all young people, with many students advancing to RADA, Guildhall, and LIPA, including BAFTA winner Jodie Comer. She has also worked with the Royal Shakespeare Company, led City of Culture projects, and created impactful verbatim theatre exploring social issues."
Sue Doherty brings a wealth of experience in theatre and arts education, ensuring a high quality of adjudication for this year's festival.
Future Plans
MADF looks forward to resuming the full Easter Festival of Plays in 2027 after this planned hiatus.
Author’s summary: MADF pauses its traditional Easter Festival in 2026 to recharge, while continuing the popular One Act Plays event, with expert adjudication ensuring strong artistic standards.