THESTIVAL 2025
Thestival is back and brighter than ever! Coming to Sheffield’s Lantern Theatre in April 2025!
Since its 2013 start as a student showcase, it’s being reinvented into a two-day celebration of musicals, comedy, drama, and creative debuts.
Butter Side Up Theatre Company proudly revives this beloved festival, packed with talent and surprises for performers and theatre-lovers alike. Fancy a weekend of artistic brilliance? Thestival’s here to steal the show (and your heart).
What to expect at THESTIVAL 2025
Friday, 11th April 2025:
Shadows of Suspicion
Written and Directed by Liam Jewison and Georgi Tunstall
Shadows of Suspicion is a dark comedy murder mystery that delves into the complexities of human nature, exploring the destructive themes of lust, jealousy, greed, and power. The narrative centres on Penny, a shrewd and calculating wife, who becomes increasingly consumed by paranoia as she suspects her husband Richard is having an affair with his alluring and sophisticated boss. Parallel to Penny’s suspicions, we meet Harri, a determined detective investigating the mysterious disappearance of Richard, who is unaware of the secrets lurking beneath the surface.
Room To Let
Written and Directed by Anthony Garbett
Room to let... studio apartment, kitchen and en-suite, all bills included... but behind this seemingly appealing advert lies a terrible truth. Landlady Alice Colmill is a vampire who is thirsty for every last drop of fresh blood she can get her fangs on. As her latest tenants have move in, they’re unaware of the threat that lurks over their shoulders. Meanwhile, a local vampire hunter, plagued by a memory that still stalks her, and a newfound ally prepare to take a stand against this relentless and lethal homeowner.
Saturday, 12th April 2025:
STAGE PRESENCE
Directed by Michael Hudson, Rob Place & Connor Varley
Stage Presence is a vibrant showcase of theatrical talent and versatility. Divided into three 45-minute segments, it highlights the unique skills required for different types of performances—commanding the stage as soloist, collaborating closely in duets, and shining within a group without overshadowing others. Featuring a dynamic mix of original scenes and songs, beloved classics, and hidden gems, Stage Presence is designed to captivate audiences and celebrate the magic of performance in all its forms. Whether dramatic or comedic, every piece offers a chance to explore and expand your theatrical horizons!
Auditions for Thestival 2025 are officially OPEN
1️⃣ Fill out the Online Audition Form by 12:00pm on Saturday 25th January 2025 (no ifs, ands, or late submissions!). Let us know which parts of Thestival you’re keen on and, if applicable, which characters you’d love to bring to life.
2️⃣ Send us your video audition before the same deadline! Yep, we need to see your skills on screen – so don’t hold back.
To get the lowdown on what’s what, download the Audition Pack for all the juicy details about the two one-act plays, plus tips on what we’re looking for in each segment.
So, what are you waiting for? Start prepping and let’s make Thestival 2025 the best one yet!