Creative Writing
These classes showcase the fantastic creative talents of entrants of all ages. Entries MUST be made online via Play&Perform. ​These classes are free to enter. Entrants will need to enter via the Play&Perform platform by 19th December 2025 and then also submit the manuscripts or scores to Play&Perform by 16th January 2026.
These classes will be adjudicated virtually and the winners will be announced at the festival.
If we receive enough entries, selected stories and poems may be published as part of the WCAF 75th Anniversary Anthology... watch this space!
​We do not believe any enthusiastic performer should miss out on WCAF because of financial concerns or additional needs. We want to make taking part as easy as possible and to ensure we include everyone who wants to take part. Please contact admin@wcaf.org.uk to discuss how we can accommodate the needs of any potential entrants.
​The theme this year for poems is 'Diamonds'. ​Entries in the open section can be on any theme.
We have changed the format of this section. Poems simply need to be submitted in a written format. There is no need to perform your own poem at the festival or film a video. Entrants who would like the opportunity to perform their own poetry live should see our really exciting new Poetry Slam section, which can be found in the Poetry syllabus.
​​Entrants to write their own story in approximately 300 words. Stories must be written in English. The adjudicator will be looking for adherence to the theme (where applicable), originality, imagination and the ability to craft and the story in a manner that engages the audience.
Entrants to write a scene(s) from a play lasting between approximately 5 and 10 minutes, with the title 'The Anniversary'. The main language must be English. The adjudicator will be looking for originality, imagination and the ability to craft the storyline and characters in a manner that engages theaudience.
These sections give entrants of all ages and experience the opportunity to present to an audience on a subject of their choice. Powerpoint or other presentation tools may be used, along with relevant props/objects (these must be able to be carried by the entrant alone). The presentations will be assessed based upon their construction and delivery, the use of visual aids and interaction with the audience.
This offers perfect practice and preparation for presentations for EPQ or for Duke of Edinburgh's award.