Students arts festival inspired by Edinburgh fringe is a hit

30th May 2025

Performing Arts students from Stratford-upon-Avon College have been working hard on an ‘Edinburgh Fringe’ style festival called ‘Stratfest’.  

The live festival consisted of 12 separate shows – 2 dance, 5 acting and 5 musical theatre. The festival was spread across three days and was a collaboration between Year 1 Dance, Acting, Musical Theatre and Technical Theatre students.  

The students worked together on their pieces, handling everything from the set design to the lighting, artistic choices, and overall themes. They utilised the skills and techniques they have learnt during first year.   

The actors did their own interpretation of ‘People, Places and Things’ by Duncan Macmillan, dancers created hard hitting pieces about mental health struggles, and the musical theatre students showcased Roger and Hammerstein musicals.  

Each show was 30 minutes and was performed to an audience of their peers in the College’s Willow’s Theatre.  

The jam-packed schedule of shows involved 19 techies, 28 musos, 16 actors and 8 dancers. Each performance featured amazing talent and professionalism, which created an incredible atmosphere for the audience. 

First year Technical Theatre student, Charlie Green, who was Stage Manager for Stratfest, commented: “This was a very daunting project for everyone, but I very quickly learned the importance of working together. This has been an invaluable experience and has been so rewarding. Working on 12 Stratfest shows has certainly shaped my future, and I have gained skills that I can use in and out of College.”  

Well done to all staff and students involved in this festival, you all did an amazing job!   

Find out more about the College’s SUAC Onstage SUAC ONSTAGE.