The Orchard Theatre’s Creative Learning department is turning a new chapter this year, filling Orchard West and the surrounding community spaces with a vibrant program of homegrown events, workshops, and productions. Designed to showcase local talent and provide a vital hub for the people of Dartford, the 2026 season proves that the heart of the theatre is stronger than ever, while the main Orchard Theatre undergoes refurbishment.
SEEKING WILLY WONKA!
Summer Youth Project: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
This summer, Orchard West will transform into a world of pure imagination as a cast of 100 talented young people takes to the stage for the Summer Youth Project production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Running from Fri 21 – Sun 23 August, this “original viral craze” will bring the magic of golden tickets and a lifetime supply of chocolate to life.
Applications are currently open for participants both on and off the stage. The team is especially on the hunt for a commanding Willy Wonka to lead this sweet adventure. The part seeks a male-presenting young person, age 14 – 19. There are plenty more opportunities to get involved both on and off stage. Auditions will be held on Sun 12 April, 2026, for young performers (ages 9–19) and technicians (ages 16–19).
LINKS
Backstage placements – https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSedpd9camSTxO7XwZApwwcAS3LHE15WM8pOICLEBulKjUfMqg/viewform
Dartford’s Got Talent and Battle of the Bands!
Talent Showcases and Musical Battles for those who prefer the spotlight of the main stage. Dartford’s Got Talent returns for its fourth year on Sat 16 May, featuring a panel of celebrity judges. Additionally, the audience-favourite, Battle of the Bands, returns with a bang on Sun 10 April, giving local musicians the chance to compete on the Orchard West stage.
LINKS
Audition for Dartford’s Got Talent – https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe5ni00CGQFnzDYRYgRwEO40oZy9Ku6x6mc0CwqJDyvweAUVA/viewform
Tickets for Dartford’s Got Talent – https://trafalgartickets.com/orchard-theatre-dartford/en-GB/event/creative-learning/dartfords-got-talent-2026-tickets
Register for Battle of the Bands – https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfcp_8G410Agy4VXUeemmhoTU6qz2MRg70mZc7viFoL_e3J1g/viewform
Tickets for Battle of the Bands – https://trafalgartickets.com/orchard-theatre-dartford/en-GB/event/creative-learning/battle-of-the-bands-2026-tickets
West End Workshops
The theatre’s prestigious West End Workshops are also making a highly anticipated return. Having previously hosted stars like Layton Williams and Rob Madge, this year’s lineup includes:
Tue 14 April: Moulin Rouge! Workshop (learn the songs and dances and film content!)
Tue 26 May: Stage Combat Workshop (sessions available for both adults and young people)
Mon 26 October: & Juliet Workshop with the Olivier Award-winning Miriam-Teak Lee (& Juliet, West End)
ON SALE SOON at orchardwest.co.uk
Community Spirit at Acacia Sports Hall
While work continues on the main venue, over 80% of community offerings have found a thriving home at Acacia Sports Hall. Through a successful partnership with Dartford Borough Council, this space has been revitalized to host:
Monthly Community Fairs: Featuring a diverse, invitation-only mix of local makers, small businesses, and services, complete with entertainment and open-mic sessions. These events are FREE to attend.
Next events:
Sat 7 March – https://trafalgartickets.com/orchard-theatre-dartford/en-GB/event/creative-learning/community-fair-07-mar-tickets
Sat 11 April – https://trafalgartickets.com/orchard-theatre-dartford/en-GB/event/creative-learning/community-fair-11-apr-tickets
Stall holder applicants: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdwPbcKIqSAmwNbkkXGp-rSUCZoYtmff5KinAZz1bmJK_avRQ/viewform
Baby Concerts: Now moved to a monthly schedule in response to customer feedback. These immersive experiences allow babies to play and dance, starting with a Disney-themed concert at the Community Fair on Sat 7 February.
Weekly Clubs: The community is encouraged to join the Ukulele Club, Orchard Choir, Chair Fit, or the Gardening Club. The first session for any weekly club is free to attend—a perfect “new adventure” for 2026.
Full Information on Get Involved – https://trafalgartickets.com/orchard-theatre-dartford/en-GB/get-involved
New Creative Outlets
New for 2026 is the Monthly Craft Club at Orchard West, where attendees can craft while enjoying the venue’s hospitality offerings. The first session launches on Wed 18 March. Additionally, craft partner Fancy Faces will offer school holiday workshops for young people, beginning Wed 8 April.
ON SALE SOON at orchardwest.co.uk
Family Cinema is sponsored by Dartford Borough Council and hosted by the Orchard West.
Enjoy these family favourite films in the comfort of the Orchard West auditorium for only £5
Sat 14 Feb – Matilda Sing-Along – https://trafalgartickets.com/orchard-theatre-dartford/en-GB/event/film/film-family-cinema-14-feb-tickets
Sun 15 March – The Little Mermaid ( 2023 live action) – https://trafalgartickets.com/orchard-theatre-dartford/en-GB/event/film/film-sunday-cinema-15-mar-tickets
Tue 7 April – Wonker – https://trafalgartickets.com/orchard-theatre-dartford/en-GB/event/film/film-family-cinema-07-apr-tickets
Sun 19 April – Encanto Sing-Along – https://trafalgartickets.com/orchard-theatre-dartford/en-GB/event/film/film-sunday-cinema-19-apr-tickets
Healing and growth come from the promises we keep to ourselves and our community. We invite everyone in Dartford to join us in this season of creativity and connection.
For more information, audition registrations, or to book tickets for upcoming events, please visit orchardwest.co.uk or email Creative Learning Manager Terri McCann on tmccann@orchardtheatre.co.uk