U of T’s annual drama festival kicks off at Hart House Theatre this Thursday night, featuring nine productions.

The nine shows that comprise this year’s festival includes submissions from clubs, college drama societies, independent submissions, as well as an improv showcase. This is the 16th year that the festival has accepted only original work by current students.

The festival will be adjudicated by Jill Carter, an assistant professor who teaches at U of T’s Centre for Drama, Theatre, and Performance Studies. Following the conclusion of the festival on Saturday night, Carter will conduct the awards ceremony, which will include awards for best production, best direction, and best playwriting.