Highbridge Festival returning with fresh talent in 2024

Attracting participants from all over Somerset and beyond, the event offers a unique platform for enthusiasts of the performing arts to showcase their skills in 'Speech & Drama', 'Dance', and 'Music'.

Though older than the well-known Glastonbury Festival, Highbridge's own is less about watching big names perform and more about witnessing new talent take to the stage.

All entrants are judged by an expert adjudicator, who provides constructive feedback and awards marks according to a nationally recognised scheme.

Winners from each category receive a medal to commemorate their achievement.

Participants range from young children to senior citizens in various categories including reciting poetry, reading prose, performing monologues, and dancing ballet to hip hop.

The festival also sees the participation of musical groups and soloists who perform using a variety of instruments from handbells to harps.

The festival even recently welcomed its first bagpipe performer.

Over the years, several competitors have used the experience to advance their careers.

Notable past participants include film actor Rupert Graves, renowned for roles in A Room with a View, The Madness of King George, and the BBC's Sherlock.

Eminent film director Stephen Daldry CBE, the creative driving force behind hits like Billy Elliot, The Hours, and The Reader, also regularly competed in the festival in his early years.

In a bid to encourage fresh talent, the festival organisers urge new potentials to participate in the 2024 edition.

The festival’s website provides a syllabus outlining various classes across various age groups open for entries until December 31 for 'Dance', and January 14 for 'Music'.

Online entry forms can be accessible on its website.

And for those hesitant to step into the limelight, an open invitation extends to attend the festival and potentially witness the emergence of future stars in television, film, or the stage.