Hundreds of high school students across Massachusetts prepared for months are preparing to take the stage of the annual Massachusetts high school drama festival, one of the largest student theater events in the state. Organized by the Massachusetts Educational Theater Guild (METG), the festival brings together more than 100 one- act plays from high schools across Massachusetts each year.
The festival operates as a statewide competition that unfolds in three rounds: the preliminaries, Semi finals and state finals. Schools perform condensed one- act productions, and judges recognize excellence in acting,directing and technical theater. Of all the schools that participate, up to 15 advance to state finals, where three are ultimately named winners
The 2026 festival began with the preliminary round on Feb.28, followed by semi finals scheduled for March 14. The state finals will take place between March 26th-28th.
While competition is central to the event, students say the festival is just as much about community as it is about winning.
Ian Prime, a junior from Georgetown High School performing Euridice, said meeting other theater students is his favorite part of the experience.
“My favorite part of fest is the social aspect and getting to talk to so many people from different schools all day,” Prime said. However, he admitted the anticipation before performing can be nerve racking. “My least favorite part is the stress before you go out to perform.”
Students must also navigate strict festival guidelines. Productions are limited in running time and must set up and strike their sets within tight time limits.
“My least favorite part is the time limit we have to put on the shows and to set up our set,” said Maya Abutal, a freshman from Essex Technical High School performing A Trip to the Moon. Despite the challenge, Abutal said she looks forward to the excitement of the awards ceremony at the end of the day.
For many participants, performing in front of an audience of fellow thespians creates a unique atmosphere.
“I look forward most to meeting new people and performing in front of an audience of entirely theater kids,” said Heidi Sanger, a senior from Triton Regional High School, whose school is performing New in Town. “It is the most supportive audience I have ever performed in front of.”
In addition to the competitive festival, METG also hosts the Massachusetts Theater Celebration, a non-Competitive event where students perform their work and receive feedback from professional theater practitioners. The event focuses on collaboration rather than judging and allows students to participate in short workshops and discussions. This year’s celebration took place on March 7th.
Schools that participate in these events may also be selected to represent Massachusetts at thest the New England Drama Festival, which brings together two schools from each of the six New England states for performances, workshops, and discussions about theater education. The 2026 festival will take place April 30th through May 2nd.
For nearly a century, METG has supported theater education across Massachusetts by working with teachers and artists, advocating for arts funding, and encouraging students to develop leadership and creative skills. For many students, the drama festival represents more than a performance; it is a chance to connect with a statewide community of young artists who share the same passion for theater.
