2027 Festival | Take the stage

Speech & Drama.

From first poems to original speeches and compelling scenes, there is a class for every voice. Be heard, tell your story and grow in confidence.

19–21 March 2027Entries close 31 JanuarySir Thomas Wharton Academy

Explore all 2027 classes Meet the adjudicator

Browse the syllabus

Find the right class

Explore the four sections below, including 2027 class descriptions, age groups, time limits and entry fees.

01Poetry & spoken wordOriginal poetry, set poems, own-choice poetry, sonnets and humorous verse 02Speaking & readingPrepared prose, storytelling, original stories and impromptu speaking 03PresentationNews presentation and original public speaking 04Acting & theatreDuologues, devised scenes, dramatic and comic solos, Shakespeare and group drama

Taking a Set Poem class?

Your 2027 set poems

Classes 6–10: explore the poem options for your age group, read the full texts and practise your chosen piece.

Read the set poems

Experienced, encouraging feedback

Your 2027 adjudicator

Speech & Drama

Peter Dayson Cert Ed, LGSM, BFRD

We are delighted to welcome Peter back. With over 50 years in theatre as an actor, director, producer and writer, he brings a lifetime of experience to every performance.

Meet Peter and our adjudicators

Recognising effort, skill and creativity

Celebrating your achievements

Medals and trophies

Medals are offered across the classes, with named trophies and some additional awards recognising outstanding performances. See each class for its specific prize details.

Harry Cutts Trophy

At the close of the Festival, the adjudicator will select one outstanding performer from across the weekend as the Speech & Drama Overall Winner.

BBC Radio Sheffield

The News Presentation classes are supported by BBC Radio Sheffield. The syllabus also describes a studio tour for the overall winner of those classes.

A little extra inspiration

With thanks to our supporters

Generous organisations are supporting the 2027 Speech & Drama section with books, poetry resources and other donated items. Thank you for helping us celebrate young talent.

Information for entrants, teachers and parents

Before you enter

Step 1

Check the regulations

Read the Festival Regulations before submitting an entry. Please also check the requirements for original copies, adjudicator material and copyright permissions, particularly for duologues and group drama.

Read the regulations

Step 2

Choose your classes

Browse the 2027 class list and find the right age group, time limit, entry fee and performance requirements for each entry.

Explore the classes

Ready to take the stage?

Music and Speech & Drama entries close on 31 January 2027. Read the regulations before entering.

Online entry