The audience was wowed by some of the best performances of the festival in a 'moments you may have missed' first half.
The night began with an outstanding performance by the pupils of the Pamela Cassells School Of Performance with their interpretation of the musical, 'Everybody's Talking About Jamie' which won the company the award for Best Interperation of Musical Theatre and the best actor award for Shea Fox who played the lead..
This was followed by selected highlight performances of various poems and monologues.
The second half of the gala night was dedicated to the presentation of overall awards.
Photographer Tony Hendron went along to capture some of the atmosphere of the special evening.
13. Portadown Speech Festival
Alice Mackle pictured with her awards. PT08-252. Photo: TONY HENDRON
14. Portadown Speech Festival
Calce McCrory pictured with her trophies for highest mark In Bible reading and highest mark in prose reading. PT08-253. Photo: TONY HENDRON
15. Portadown Speech Festival
Shea Fox poses proudly with his award for best actor in the festival and the trophy for the best interpretation of musical theatre which was won by Pamela Cassells School Of Performance. PT08-254. Photo: TONY HENDRON
16. Portadown Speech Festival
Emma Livingstone pictured with her awards for highest mark in the favorite poem section and the Keegan Cup for the most versatile performer 11 years and under. PT08-256. Photo: TONY HENDRON