Lichfield Festival needs Young Critics!
Aged 11-18? Love writing? Always sharing your opinions on books, music, and shows? Join our Young Critics programme, get behind the scenes, and review shows at the Lichfield Festival.
Young Critics visit Festival events and write reviews to share their thoughts and opinions with Lichfield visitors and residents. As a Young Critic, you will:
- Receive a special Festival pass and free tickets to selected events
- Take part in a writing masterclass with professional writers
- Review everything from theatre and dance, to live music, and so much more
- Work alongside the Festival team and meet performers, authors, and artists
- Sharpen your writing skills through real-world reviewing
- See your reviews published on the Festival blog and beyond
You’ll be invited to a range of Festival events, and then write a short review or create a short form video for each one. It’s a fun, hands-on way to build your writing portfolio and start getting your name out there.
Who are we looking for? You might be:
- A young writer or aspiring journalist
- A book lover, music fan, theatre-goer, or curious creative
- Someone who’s enthusiastic, open-minded
- Able to work quickly and meet deadlines
- Developing your creative or critical writing
If you love writing, trying new things, and sharing your thoughts, we want to hear from you!
How to become a Young Critic:
Apply to join the Young Critics Programme via this Form
Applications are now open for the 2026 Lichfield Festival. The application will ask you for your details and a short review of a book you have read, a film/TV programme you have watched, or a concert/performance you have attended recently.
DEADLINE: 10am 25th June
If you have any questions please email Alex Clark-Michalek (learning and participation producer) at alex.clark-michalek@lichfieldfestival.org.
Please Note: Lichfield Festival 2026 takes place from the 7-19th July; you must be available for some of these dates to be able to take part.
