One-Act Play Festival

The Christian perspective of performing and dramatic arts is effectively communicating with an audience by using God-given talents and gifts with integrity. Good theatre is more than just entertainment, it can be invaluable in starting conversations and causing an audience to think deeper. Performers and technicians who have a Biblical worldview and who apply the principles of Scripture to their art and gifts have the power to become a light bearer in a dark world.

ACSI's One-Act Play Festival gives students an opportunity to demonstrate an understanding of verbal and nonverbal communication through the use of acting, set design, lighting design, sound design, and other aspects of theatrical presentations. In addition to celebrating the talents of young actors, actresses, and crew members, the festival provides students with the opportunity to collaborate with students from other ACSI member schools, learn and grow as they watch other One-Act Plays, and receive valuable feedback and critique from judges.

Ensembles present plays for evaluation. Three qualified judges, provided by participating schools, evaluate each play based on a set criteria. Plays are awarded based on their scores and receive evaluative comments from each judge. Awards are also given for best overall performances.

Students in Grades 6–12 from ACSI member schools may participate. Each registered school may enter a maximum of 2 plays.

Adjudication & Awards

Three judges will evaluate each performance. Awards include Judges' Choice, Best Production Design, Best Use of Technology, Best Play (highest score), and All-Star Cast (2 per cast).

Entries are adjudicated based on criteria and in direct comparison to other works.

Registration & Fees

• School Registration Fee: $215 for first play by October 13, 2023 ($100/school flat rate late fee applies after deadline)
  • $115 per additional play
  • $25 for non-cast attending workshops and viewing performances
  • $15 per person to attend workshops only
  • $10 per person to attend performances only as audience

For additional information, please contact a Student Leadership & Learning team member.