About The Southend Festival of Performing Arts

The Southend Festival of Performing Arts is an annual competitive festival of music and drama. The Festival runs every day for a fortnight in November, and has classes for all ages and abilities.

Our objective is to encourage the study, performance and appreciation of a variety of instruments and talents – musical and vocal, in addition to the spoken and written word. We aim to give the competitors the opportunity to test their skills and receive constructive and encouraging feedback from a professional adjudicator, whilst entertaining audiences.

The range of classes is extensive and includes own choice as well as set-piece selections, individual, as well as group opportunities and, with the introduction of some non-competitive classes, caters for everyone wanting to participate.

Anyone is welcome to come along and watch the competitions; there are usually three 3-hour sessions a day. Admission for a nominal fee will give you access to some wonderful entertainment, and provide an audience for our performers.

The Arts are an important part of any community and the Festival has been the showcase of artistic talent in the area since 1911.