CISDF: Drama Festival

The CIS Ontario Drama Festival (CISDF) is a one-of-a-kind theatre field trip experience for students passionate about drama and theatre.

Hosted by none other than the world-renowned Stratford Festival each spring, this one-of-a-kind inter-school theatrical experience makes a lasting impact on aspiring actors, producers and technicians. As North America's largest classical repertory theatre company, the Stratford Festival offers a unique opportunity for our students to engage with professional actors and technicians and to see high-quality productions.

The offerings include seats for a current theatrical production, workshops by Stratford Festival teaching artists and students' participation in performances. Working with Stratford's performing artists sets a high bar and raises the calibre of conversation about theatre, whether offering supportive feedback or educating students about how to adjudicate a show. It's also an exciting way to expose young artists to social opportunities with passionate and dedicated peers from member CIS Ontario schools.

From Page to Stage

SENIOR SCHOOL PROGRAM for students in grades 9-12
Wednesday, April 23 – Friday, April 25, 2025

The CIS Ontario Drama Festival (CISDF) Senior School Program is an engaging and enriching multi-day curricular event at the renowned Stratford Festival in Stratford, Ontario—North America’s largest classical repertory theatre company. This year, we are excited to explore the theme of “From Page to Stage”, offering students a deeper understanding of how theatrical works come to life.

The intended audience for the 2025 Senior Program are – Grades 9-12 students who are passionate about drama and theatre.

CISDF provides a one-of-a-kind inter-school theatre field trip experience. Students will participate in engaging workshops led by Stratford professionals, take captivating behind-the-scenes tours of the Festival’s costume and prop warehouses, and explore the artistry behind staging world-class productions.

As part of this year’s program, students will also enjoy a Stratford performance of Anne of Green Gables and take part in an exclusive Q&A session with Kat Sandler, acclaimed playwright, director, and graduate of CIS Ontario Member School UTS (University of Toronto Schools). Kat will share her insights into the creative process, her career, and her journey from student to celebrated artist.

CISDF continues its tradition of student performances, providing a platform for participants to showcase their creativity and passion for theatre while learning from professional actors, technicians, and industry leaders. Students have the rare opportunity to perform a 20-minute piece at the Studio Theatre, one of Stratford Festival’s main stages—a once-in-a-lifetime experience for young dramatists. An adjudication element allows students to discuss their creative projects with industry professionals, fostering growth and exploration. With a supportive audience of festival participants, the atmosphere is both celebratory and empowering. Senior school students who prefer not to perform are welcome to participate without sharing a production.

We look forward to an unforgettable experience that connects passion, creativity, and the magic of theatre!

Part 1 registration confirms your school's interest, intent to participate, and estimated number of student participants. Please register by March 31st. For a possible extension, contact Jeremy at jbarr@cisontario.ca.

PART 1 – Register your School

Sword Fights and Storytelling

MIDDLE SCHOOL PROGRAM for students in grades 6-8
Friday, October 25, 2024

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Sword Fights and Storytelling: Middle Schoolers Experience Theatrical Adventure at the CIS Ontario Drama Festival