BEDLAM 2026

Birmingham Rep is again delighted to be a part of the BEDLAM Arts and Mental Health Festival, running Fri 6 – Sat 7 Nov, in collaboration with Sampad, Birmingham Rep and Midlands Arts Centre (MAC).

BEDLAM 2026 presents a packed Symposium of talks, workshops, discussions and performances, all exploring the relationship between arts, creativity, mental health and wellbeing. This year the programme is focussed on Artist Wellbeing, and brings together artists, practitioners and mental health professionals. The festival will explore how creativity can support wellbeing, resilience and connection, while creating space for dialogue, learning and collaboration across the arts and health sectors.

The Rep’s involvement includes being part of the Opening Night at Midlands Arts Centre on Fri 6 Nov, which includes a keynote speech from Rob Beck and Dr Anthony Gifford, the team between The Rep’s LGBTQTeeHee!, a ground-breaking project exploring comedy, connection and wellbeing within the LGBTQ+ community. This is followed by a panel discussion with leading industry voices, taking a deep dive into artist wellbeing.

And on Sat 7 Nov, The Rep presents a facilitated discussion and workshop, exploring how theatre can support the wellbeing of refugees and people seeking sanctuary. Drawing from The Rep’s Theatre of Sanctuary work and wider UK practice, these sessions will share learning and challenges, followed by practical exploration and future-focused pedagogy.

The full programme can be viewed here

Events are ticketed on a pay what you can basis, with free tickets available.