Deputy Mayor, Councillor Kyle Savage dropped in on the opening morning to wish the competitors and festival organisers well.
In the afternoon the audience were treated to a variety of speech and singing as the Musical Theatre Duologues took place, with a colourful range of costumes and famous songs from the musicals were on display.
The festival runs until Friday, February 28.
Photographer Tony Hendron caught some of the atmosphere of the first day.
17. Portadown Speech Festival
Eliza Mackle and Finley Bell performing a scene from 'Doctor Doolittle'. PT07-219. Photo: TONY HENDRON
18. Portadown Speech Festival
Maisy and Lily Davison pictured during their performance. PT07-218. Photo: TONY HENDRON
19. Portadown Speech Festival
Oonagh and Faith performing a scene from 'Annie'. PT07-221. Photo: TONY HENDRON
20. Portadown Speech Festival
Lucy Best and Isla Grace McClements performing a scene from 'Frozen'. PT07-220. Photo: TONY HENDRON