WHO ARE WE?
The British Festival of Performing Arts (BFOPA) is a national celebration of young talent, bringing together schools, studios, and performers from across the UK to take part in a one-of-a-kind professional theatre experience.
In a nut shell, we offer an interactive day of performing arts. We kick off with industry lead workshops during the day, where our participants get to learn material from West End shows! This will be followed by a variety show performance in the evening. Our groups take to the stage where they perform in front of our industry professionals where they will receive celebration and praise in front of our live audience. You will also get the joy of seeing our West End professionals perform for you.
Our aim is for young people to feel seen, celebrated, and supported in their growth. With awards ceremony with incredible prizes from our sponsors, recognising individuals who show excellence, creativity, and a commitment to learn throughout the day. This is not a contest between schools, it’s a celebration of young people, their unique strengths, and their dedication to the arts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does it cost?
A: Nothing to you as a school. We charge each performer a small participation fee of £35, which covers their full day experience, including masterclasses, the live show, awards, and more. We just ask that you help promote ticket sales to families so we can fill the auditorium and give the children the audience they deserve!
Q. Are there lots of schools taking part?
No. We accept 10 groups only per festival to ensure a high-quality experience for all involved and to maintain the prestigious nature of the event. Each group should bring 20–30 performers, allowing for a full stage experience without overwhelming the schedule.
Q: Can my child leave early?
A: Nothing to you as a school. We charge each performer a small participation fee of £35, which covers their full day experience, including masterclasses, the live show, awards, and more. We just ask that you help promote ticket sales to families so we can fill the auditorium and give the children the audience they deserve!
Q. Are there lots of schools taking part?
No. We accept 10 groups only per festival to ensure a high-quality experience for all involved and to maintain the prestigious nature of the event. Each group should bring 20–30 performers, allowing for a full stage experience without overwhelming the schedule.
Q: Can my child leave early?
A: No. All performers must remain until the end of the show to uphold the shared spirit of the event and be eligible for awards.
Q: Are the awards given to schools or individuals?
A: Individuals. BFOPA recognises personal excellence in performance, not school affiliation. This ensures fair, focused, and meaningful recognition.
Q: Will performers be supported backstage?
A: Yes absolutely! We work closely with the local authority to ensure strict safeguarding is followed. You will be asked to provide your own chaperones to supervise your pupils. However, BFOPA also has designated safeguarding leads and staff coordinating the event should you need support.
Q: Are the awards given to schools or individuals?
A: Individuals. BFOPA recognises personal excellence in performance, not school affiliation. This ensures fair, focused, and meaningful recognition.
Q: Will performers be supported backstage?
A: Yes absolutely! We work closely with the local authority to ensure strict safeguarding is followed. You will be asked to provide your own chaperones to supervise your pupils. However, BFOPA also has designated safeguarding leads and staff coordinating the event should you need support.
Q: What if we want to apply next year?
A: Places are limited. To be added to the priority mailing list, please email info@bfopa.com.
Q: Can I bring more than one group?
A: Yes, absolutely! You are welcome to bring multiple groups, as long as each group meets the required 20–30 performers. Due to limited capacity (a maximum of 10 groups total), please let us know as early as possible to reserve your space!
We would be absolutely delighted to welcome your school to the next British Festival of Performing Arts. Whether you’re joining us for the first time or returning with new performers, BFOPA is all about creating unforgettable memories, building confidence, and shining a spotlight on the stars of tomorrow. Let’s celebrate young people - together.