The Legacy
The B.C. National Theatre School Dramafest is an annual event organized by a group of Association of B.C. Drama Educators and other Arts professionals. We convene to celebrate the incredible work in secondary school Drama programs, where students and their teachers from all around the province display their craft in productions, workshops and social activities.
Our Evolution
Originally titled the ABCDE Provincial Drama Festival, we initially operated within the B.C. Festival of the Arts. After operating independently and partnering with Sears Canada for six years, we are now proud partners with the National Theatre School of Canada.
How It Works
The province is divided into 18 Drama Zones. Each Zone organizes a festival between November and March.
- 1. Zones hold local festivals.
- 2. Adjudicators select an Outstanding Production.
- 3. Winners represent their Zone at Provincials.
Showcase Productions
These are the Outstanding Productions from all active Zones.
Note: If an Outstanding Production cannot attend, the Zone's selected Alternate Production is invited.
Youthwright
Our yearly playwriting competition. Students submit original one-act scripts in January. Winners are invited to present their script production at the Festival.
Workshops & Adjudication
Cast and crew receive private adjudication workshops. We also offer a variety of specialized theatre workshops for all attendees.
Social Connection
Activities to connect students from across BC, culminating in a large theme dance on the final evening.
Participation in the Festival fosters respect, excitement, artistic development, teamwork, and a lifelong appreciation for the craft of theatre.