Applications for Celebration 2026 open Friday 9 January 2026 and close Monday 9 February 2026. Apply via the Microsoft form on the Taking Part page. 

Make sure to include plenty of detail about your planned performance to help us create a diverse programme. You don’t need to list exact pieces but do describe the type of performance (e.g. choir, orchestra, musical theatre, rock, etc.). 
 

If your choir group is practicing with a backing track, or you don’t feel confident to provide live accompaniment on stage, Britten Pears Arts can provide a professional pianist to accompany your group on your performance day. There will be a chance to practice with the pianist in your technical rehearsal.

This is to reduce the use of backing tracks and encourage live music wherever possible. If you would like to request this option, please indicate it on your application form. 
 

Yes! Community groups can still apply to be a part of Celebration this year. There will be an after-school rehearsal slot available each day, with an arrival time of 4pm.

If your application is successful, we’ll send you a simple checklist that clearly outlines what paperwork needs to be completed and when. You’ll find details of each form below. 
1.    Letter of Acceptance
This letter confirms your participation and outlines the agreement between Britten Pears Arts and your school or group. 
2.    Technical Form and Programme Details
A Microsoft Form sharing more about your performance, such as lighting, sound and staging requirements. 
3.    BOPA Form 
A Body of Persons Approval (BOPA) form is required to allow organisations obtain a licence for performances where large groups of children are involved. We work closely with Suffolk County Council, who oversee the welfare and safety of all young participants. 
Please ensure you follow the regulation ratio of 12 students to 1 chaperoning teacher. Our team is happy to guide you through completing this form if you need any support. 
4.    Photography and Film Consent 
We request permission for participants to be photographed and filmed during the project. We understand that not everyone wishes to be included – anyone who cannot be photographed or filmed will wear a rainbow lanyard on the day, so they can still fully take part in the event. 
5.    Absence Authorisation Letter (Schools Only) 
Schools will need to obtain a Headteacher’s signature authorising absences for the performance – we’ll provide a template letter. 
6.    Safeguarding Checklist (Community Groups) 
Community groups are asked to complete and submit a Safeguarding Checklist to ensure all safeguarding standards are met. 
 

All groups will be notified when tickets are available to book in the Spring term either online or by calling our Box Office on 01728687110. 

All groups will receive a discount code to share with parents and families. 

To help ensure every performance has a good audience and everyone gets a chance to attend, please share the ticket information with parents and families as soon as you receive it. 

Each performing group is entitled to two complimentary tickets. These can be used to invite members of staff or special guests of your choice. 
To request your complimentary tickets, please contact the Celebration team directly. 

If your application is successful, teaching staff and group leaders will be invited to a free Twilight CPD session on Thursday 14 May 4.30 – 6pm. This session will include an introduction to the Finale song and guidance to help you teach it to your group. This will also be an opportunity for you to meet the Celebration presenters and discuss the details of your performance with them and troubleshoot any concerns or issues together. 

It is compulsory for at least one teacher from your school or group attends the CPD session so please make a note of this date and ensure that someone is nominated to attend. 

If your group wish to request a piano accompanist for your performance, please indicate this in your application or let the Celebration team know. 

Arrival:      
Please arrive at your allocated time.  
When you arrive, you will be signed in and taken to your dressing room, which will be your base for the day. 
Technical Rehearsal:     
Each group will have a 25-minute rehearsal on stage. Your group leader will meet our concert manager 10-minutes before the rehearsal starts. 
Mass Finale Rehearsal:     
All performers will come together on stage for a 45-minute rehearsal to practise the finale song as one big group.  
Break:     
After rehearsals, you'll return to your dressing room for a break before the performance begins. Your group will be called to the concert hall 10 minutes before showtime.   
Performance:     
The performance starts at 7pm. Your group will have seats in the hall to watch other performances. A staff member will collect you when it's your turn to perform and return you to your seats afterwards.  
The show should finish around 9pm. 

Each group will have a designated pick-up area outside the Concert Hall for parents and carers. 

Between rehearsals, you’ll have some free time. Feel free to bring activities (like drawing or puzzles) or explore the site and green spaces.

To help keep everyone safe and make sure the day runs smoothly, please follow these guidelines when planning your performance:
Footwear/Clothing: All performers must wear shoes at all times and avoid costumes or movements that expose bare skin to the floor – the wooden stage can cause splinters.
Safety: Please don’t sit, skid, or perform cartwheels etc. on the stage. 
Projections: Our technical team cannot project images or videos onto the stage walls or in the concert hall. 
Food & Drink: No food or drink is allowed on stage. Only bottled water with a secure lid is permitted. 

To assist with planning your performance, you will find a stage plan at the bottom of this page.

We have limited storage space for small equipment in the backstage dock area. Please note that all items are left at the owner’s risk – Britten Pears Arts cannot accept responsibility for any loss or damage. 

When bringing your own equipment or instruments, please make sure that:
All items are insured by your school or organisation. 
Everything is clearly labelled with the owner’s name and group. 
Small items are stored safely in suitable boxes or cases. 
All electrical equipment has been PAT tested, is in safe working order, and is used only for its intended purpose.