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A Century of Talent: Cheltenham Festival of Performing Arts Celebrates Centenary with Business Community Roots
15 May @ 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm
A Special Invitation to Businesses from CFPA
The Cheltenham Festival of Performing Arts (CFPA) is proud to announce its 100th anniversary, marking a century of igniting artistic passion in the heart of Gloucestershire. As the town’s oldest non-sporting festival, the CFPA returns to the Cheltenham Town Hall from 6th – 16th May 2026 for a historic centenary celebration.
The festival’s origins are inextricably linked to the local business community. In 1926, the Cheltenham Chamber of Commerce was instrumental in setting up the very first festival. One hundred years later, that partnership remains a vital part of the town’s cultural fabric.
“The Chamber helped us start this journey a century ago,” says Alan Gillespie, CFPA Chairman. “As we celebrate our centenary, we are looking to the next generation of local leaders and businesses to help us carry this legacy forward.”
The Young Performers Award: An Evening for the Business Community
Chamber members are invited to attend the flagship Young Performers Award on 15th May at the Town Hall. This evening showcases the “best of the best” across music, dance, and drama. It is not just a competition; it is high-tier entertainment that demonstrates the resilience and skill of the region’s rising stars. It offers a perfect opportunity for local professionals to see the tangible impact of cultural investment in the town.
15th May, 6.30 pm at the Town Hall. No charge for entry.
Support the Legacy: Join as a Volunteer or Friend
To ensure the smooth running of this milestone event, the festival is seeking new volunteers to join its dedicated team of stewards. For those who wish to support the charity’s mission more formally, the “Friends of the Festival” scheme offers a way to contribute to the long-term sustainability of the arts in Cheltenham.
This includes unlimited entry to the performances from 6th to 16th May.
For more information on CFPA, how to volunteer, become a Friend, or attend the Young Performers Award, please visit their website>>
Contact them at info@cfpa.org.uk