FAQ

Where do I find the entry forms and can they be downloaded?

Entry for vocal, piano, speech and drama, and instrumental sections will be done using the Play and Perform platform only.

For the dance section the entry forms can be found on the appropriate page, and can be downloaded and submitted either as hard copy or online.

If you cannot find your downloads, check in your download folder.

What do I do if I am unable to download the necessary documents?

Contact the Section Secretary and request hard copies of the documents that you would like to have.

How do I find the fees?
Fees are stated by each class or section in the syllabus.

Can I make an online entry?
Entry for vocal, piano, speech and drama, and instrumental sections will be done using the Play and Perform platform.

Entry forms for other sections may be downloaded and submitted online by email provided the fees are received in the Festival's bank account at the time of entry or a cheque is sent to the appropriate section secretary (See below) . No telephone or text entries permissible. It is helpful if the official forms are used.

How do I pay the fees?

Entry for vocal, piano, speech and drama, and instrumental sections will be done using the Play and Perform platform only. All payments must be made through this platform.
For other sections, cheques (with name of performer on reverse) should be sent to the appropriate Section Secretary and made payable to Richmond upon Thames Performing Arts Festival, or online to Richmond upon Thames Performing Arts Festival, sort code 602203: a/c no. 05016010. (PLEASE ADD REFERENCE APPROPRIATE SECTION) Unless fees are received, entries will not be accepted.

How is my data held?

All data is held in accordance with the Festival's Privacy Policy.

When will the timetable be available?
Timetabling depends on the number and spread of entries and cannot be arranged until entries for that section have closed. They will be published on the website as soon as available . Please send a stamped addressed envelope to the appropriate section secretary if postal notification of timetable is required.

Can I request a specific date/time for my class?
Details of unavailability on a specific date may be notified at the time of entry. Festival organisers try to accommodate musical, dance or drama commitments but this cannot be guaranteed. Entry fees are not refundable and performers are advised to keep all the session dates given in the syllabus free.

What if I am late and miss the start of my class?  

Performers are advised to arrive at least 15 minutes before the advertised time of the class. Performers who arrive late will be given the opportunity to perform at the end of the class provided that adjudication has not already begun.

How do I reach the venues and is there car parking?
Full information is given on this site – see Venues.

What date is the age taken from?
Dance : September 1st 2022

Speech & Drama and Instrumental by School Year at time of entry.

Piano and Vocal: January 1st 2023

Can I exceed the Time Limit?
Time limits are given by each class and must be observed. Performances which exceed the time limit will be adjudicated but are not eligible for a first prize or may be stopped by the organizers or adjudicators if the time limit is grossly exceeded.

Will the adjudicator accept a photocopy of my music?  

When a work is selected from a publication containing several different works which are not published separately, a photocopy may be made for the use of the adjudicator, provided that the competitor or participant has already purchased his/her own copy. The photocopy will be retained and destroyed by the Section Secretary immediately after the event. It is illegal to photocopy (or copy by other means) works which are copyright, without the permission of the copyright holder.

Do I need to provide my own accompanist?  

An accompanist is provided for the Vocal classes only and must be booked on the Entry form. Instrumentalists requiring an accompanist will need to make their own arrangements. Suggestions for suitable accompanists will be found in the relevant syllabus.

Are my parents/guardians allowed to photograph or video my performance?

The use of cameras (video, still, phone, tablets) and other recording equipment is not permitted due to copyright and Child Safe Guarding issues, especially during the performances. Some authorised photography may be allowed during the presentations by Festival officials. Where parents/guardians/carers do not wish photos to be taken at all, then the responsible adult attending should ensure that their child/pupil/vulnerable adult is not included in official authorised photos.