One Act Play Festival

The yearly festival asks students to choose or write a play that all takes place in one act. We have modelled our process after the National Theatre School Drama Festival that provides “an opportunity for students to discover the complex and rewarding work of creating theatre”. Using the NTS model, productions need to be between 15 and 50 minutes in length and star the work of students. Like NTS, our festival also provides opportunities to strengthen an openness to collaboration, professionalism. self-motivation/ability to motivate others, the ability to delegate tasks well, listening and communication skills and imagination.

We invite an outside adjudicator, who will provide feedback in two ways. At the conclusion of the last show, the adjudicator will make a few brief public comments. After the actors have changed out of costume, the casts/crews will receive a private adjudication with more specific detail. Their valued opinion will help inform our decisions regarding awards of recognition and excellence (to be presented at our mini-celebration and viewing party).

Shows will be chosen based on the following criteria:

• • ensemble commitment and character development (variety and appropriate choices in physical, emotional, vocal, and overall polish)

  • staging (actor movement, layout, variety of levels, depth and actor placement)

  • technical elements and set design choices

  • professionalism, respectful behaviour, and willingness to apply feedback and/or direction throughout the process

  • positively represent G.D.H.S. and the department