The ReAct Festival 2027
In 2027, the ReAct Festival enters its sixth year, marking five years of creating opportunities for young people to discover their voice, build confidence and experience the transformative power of theatre.
Since launching, ReAct has grown into an ambitious programme reaching thousands of Year 8 students across London secondary schools. Each year, professional theatre practitioners work in schools to introduce young people to drama and creative storytelling, with selected students progressing to a more intensive programme of workshops and performance opportunities.
At the heart of ReAct is the belief that every young person should have the opportunity to experience theatre – not simply as an audience member, but as a creator and performer. Over the past five years, young people have developed original pieces of theatre, worked alongside professional practitioners and performed their work on the stage at the Lyric Theatre Hammersmith, in front of family, friends and members of their local communities.
The Festival has become a highlight of the year, celebrating the creativity, commitment and achievements of the young people involved. It is also a powerful opportunity for schools and communities to come together and recognise what young people can achieve when they are given the space, encouragement and support to be creative.
In 2027, we will once again be working in partnership with AllChild, alongside our participating secondary schools and professional practitioner teams.
ReAct Festival 2026
A short documentary film made on the performance day at the Lyric Theatre Hammersmith
This short film brings to life the energy and talent of this year’s ReAct Festival at the Lyric Theatre Hammersmith.
Over fifty young people from four London secondary schools, Hammersmith Academy, Phoenix Academy, Ark Burlington Danes Academy and All Saints Catholic College took part in an inspiring creative journey. Together they devised bold and original performances exploring the theme of ‘Unity’.
For most, it was their first experience of performing on a professional stage.
ReAct Festival Performance Day July 2026
ReAct Festival 2025
A short documentary film made on the performance day at the Lyric Theatre Hammersmith
This vibrant short film was made during the ReAct Festival 2025 at the Lyric Theatre, Hammersmith. It celebrates the journeys of 60 young people from five London secondary schools - many stepping into an experience like this for the first time.
For most, it marked their debut on a professional stage. The film captures the thrill, growth and creativity that defined their performances, while shining a light on the powerful sense of community the festival nurtured, building confidence, forging new connections and leaving a lasting impact.
ReAct Festival Performance Day 2025
ReAct Festival 2024
A short documentary film made on the performance day at the Lyric Theatre Hammersmith
This short film was made during the hugely successful ReAct Festival 2024 at the Lyric Theatre Hammersmith, spotlighting the transformative journey of 60 young people from 6 different West London secondary schools, many of whom had never before taken part in such an experience.
For most, it was their first time performing on a professional stage. The film captures their excitement, growth, and the powerful sense of community fostered by the festival, showcasing its transformative effect in building confidence and creating new connections.
ReAct Festival Performance Day 2024
ReAct Festival Performance Day July 2023
STUDENT FEEDBACK:
“The best thing about the project was the inclusivity, and confidence building”
The atmosphere was really good and I wished I could do this again and again”
“I’ve been in plays but I’ve never created a piece of theatre before so this was a bit different as we were using our ideas. at first it was difficult but then it got easier over time. I enjoyed it, it’s fun to see our ideas in the play. I’ve learnt how to use the range in my voice more and I’ve got more friends”
“I became more sociable and made many new friends”
“One of my favourite things is how random the group is, I have some of my friends and then people that I wouldn’t talk to usually. My leadership skills have improved, my interest in teamwork has also increased. it was really fun.”
TEACHER FEEDBACK:
“The project was an all-round positive and enriching experience for the students.”
“The project is so well organised and the practitioners are excellent. There are high expectations which is great, and the project connects pupils from different classes”.
“This is such a great opportunity for our young people and they’ve all been really enjoying it. We have a lot of SEND pupils and something like this really benefits them as they come out of their shells a bit more than in regular classes. We really appreciate being involved this year and thank you to White City Theatre”