The Avett Brothers Concert on Sept. 11 kicks off the fall season at the Gertrude C. Ford Center for the Performing Arts at the University of Mississippi. Sponsorships supporting the Ford Center are available. Photo by Robert Jordan/Ole Miss Digital Imaging Services
The Mississippi Theatre Association (MTA) will host its annual statewide theatre festival January 15–18, 2026, on the campus of the University of Mississippi. This multi-day event is the largest theatre festival in the state, bringing together high school students, community theatre groups, educators, and theatre professionals from across Mississippi.
Throughout the weekend, participating schools and community theatres will compete in adjudicated performances for the opportunity to advance to the Southeastern Theatre Conference (SETC) in March. In addition to mainstage productions, the festival will feature a wide range of programming including Individual Events, a 10-Minute Play Festival, Theatre for Youth performances, workshops led by theatre professionals, and special events designed to educate, inspire, and celebrate Mississippi’s theatre community.
The Mississippi Theatre Association Festival serves as both a competitive and educational experience, offering students and artists the chance to grow their skills, receive professional feedback, and connect with peers from across the state.
Members of the public are invited to attend festival performances and workshops. Weekend passes and single-day passes will be available for purchase. Full festival schedules, ticket information, and additional details can be found at https://mississippitheatre.org/.
About Mississippi Theatre Association
The Mississippi Theatre Association is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and advancing theatre education and performance across the state through festivals, workshops, advocacy, and community engagement.
