Recitation, poetry, performances, acting musical theatre and more were all on show by the Mourne Stars in Newcastle
On Friday 3rd and Saturday 4th April 2026 the Newcastle Community Cinema (NCC) stage in Newcastle was buzzing with lots of very talented young people!
Mourne Stars held their annual Drama Festival for the pupils of this local Drama School. It was so popular that they had to run the event across two days again, to allow all of the talented pupils the chance to perform.
They had the chance to compete with fellow class members on stage reciting poetry, acting or performing a piece from musical theatre, reciting Prepared Reading and some opting to Perform in a scene for two actors.
The pupils had been preparing for the competition for a number of weeks in their classes in Newcastle, Annalong, Castlewellan, Ballynahinch, Downpatrick, Atticall and Hilltown.
The competition was judged by an impartial adjudicator, Ann Garvey, who made the whole event very worthwhile for the kids.
Each performer received their own individual feedback, and she took to the stage after each competition to address them and their families with some fantastic praise along with tips and advice for future performances for drama examinations and/or other local festivals like this one.
The audience was full of very supportive families and friends of the performers, and they were treated to some delicious treats courtesy of the Little Popcorn Shop.
There was a new award this year, The Rising Star Award. As well as the usual First, Second, Third and Highly Commended placings, there was also a Rising Star awarded to one or two performers from each category.
This was given to a performer who showed potential for future performances and had a little spark of confidence. This was certainly a popular award and all recipients were absolutely delighted!
CHECK OUT THE PHOTOS COURTESY OF MOURNE STARS
Overall, the event was really successful! Clare and all of the teachers and assistants were so proud of all of the young performers.
“It takes a lot of courage to get on to the stage and the pupils of Mourne Stars showed lots of confidence on Friday and Saturday.
There were category prizes but every single one of the participants deserve recognition for their wonderful performances. As the adjudicator Ann Garvey id a couple of times, “if you have confidence, that will stick with you for life.” Well, everyone certainly showed that last weekend, so well done to you all!
For further information Mourne Stars Speech, Drama & Performing Arts classes, visit their website www.mournestars.com
or follow them on Instagram, Facebook or TikTok.
There you can see more photos and celebrations of all of the ‘Stars’ at the most recent Drama Festival!
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