Date: Thursday 11 June 2026

Venue: Q Theatre, The Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre, Penrith

Technical rehearsals:

• Session 1 | 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
• Session 2 | 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Performance time: 7:00 pm

Depending on participation numbers, a second performance at 5:00 pm may be added to the festival. Some schools may be invited to perform in both performances.

Schools applying to participate in the LightsUP Drama Festival series are required to submit an audition video. 

Auditions videos should be uploaded to YouTube or Google Drive and the video link included in the application form. When uploading your video link ensure you have the correct sharing settings to allow the panel to view.

All applications will be assessed by the LightsUP Drama Festival audition panel, based on the following criteria:

• Audience engagement: The performance weaves authentic audience engagement throughout or at significant moments. Viewers are inspired to pay attention.
• Content: Vocabulary and content are appropriate to an audience that may include young children. Challenging concepts are explained or otherwise illuminated.
• Action/pacing: The performance is exciting. Movements are effectively planned and well placed to  add to the action. 
• Blocking: Stage space and movement are used very effectively.
• Voice/dialogue: There is an appropriate amount of dialogue. Voices are loud and clear; dialogue is easily understood and characters are distinguishable.
• Characterisation: All performers have developed and sustained strong and believable roles
• Gesture: Excellent development of characters through expressive and imaginative use of gesture and movement.
• Creativity: The performance contains many creative details that spark moments of insight, delight, joy and/or reflection in the viewer.

Participation fee: $16 per student per festival entry.

Schools are responsible for collecting participation fees from students. Once final numbers are confirmed, payment will be direct debited by The Arts Unit from schools in Term 2, 2026.

Participation numbers: Maximum 30 students per item.

Performance length:

• Primary school items – up to 8 minutes (recommended 5–6 minutes)
• Secondary school items – up to 12 minutes (recommended 8–10 minutes)

Timing must include set-up and strike times for any props.

• Film the entire group from a fixed camera angle rather than focusing on individual performers, so that all students are visible.
• Use a tripod to ensure a steady image.
• Ensure the video is of sufficient quality for the panel to clearly see your work and the performers.
• If necessary, cover windows or doors to prevent outside light from affecting the visual quality.
• Make sure your audition video meets the time frame requirements outlined in the participation details.