A Manx theatre company represented the Isle of Man in the finals of a UK drama competition with support from the Steam Packet Company.

The Broadway Theatre Company was invited to compete in the All Winners Festival Final, run by the National Drama Festival Association (NDFA), following their success in the Island’s One Act Play Festival in February.  

Amateur dramatic groups from around Britain attended the All Winner Festival in Barnsley for a week-long programme of competitions showcasing plays and performers of all ages.

The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company supported the group by assisting with the cost of travel to and from the UK for 11 young performers and their production team.

The actors, aged between 14 and 18, performed R.I.P Mr Shakespeare by Keith Hill and Bev Clark, a play which is set at the deathbed of William Shakespeare as he is haunted by the characters he created.

Broadway Theatre Company founder Carrie Hunt said: ‘We are really proud of the group’s performance at the All Winners Final, performing alongside some of the finest amateur drama groups from around Britain. The show was well received at the festival and the team enjoyed another chance to perform and fly the Manx flag.

‘On behalf of the Broadway Theatre Company I’d like to thank the Steam Packet Company for its support, which helped ensure we could attend the festival.’

Steam Packet Company Chief Executive Mark Woodward added: ‘The Isle of Man has a great amateur dramatic scene with many talented groups putting on performances throughout the year. We were pleased to assist the Broadway Theatre Company with the opportunity to showcase the Island’s talent at the finals.’