Sampad is delighted to again be a part of the BEDLAM Arts and Mental Health Festival, running Fri 6 – Sat 7 November, 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. We will explore how creativity can support wellbeing, resilience and connection, while creating space for dialogue, learning and collaboration across the arts and health sectors.
Explore our 2026 programme highlights below, and view the full programme here. Events are ticketed on a pay what you can basis, with free tickets available. You are welcome to join us for the whole Symposium, or just a one-off event.
BEDLAM Symposium Opening Night
Fri 6 Nov 5pm, Hexagon Theatre, Midlands Arts Centre. Book here.
The opening night of the 2026 Symposium features a keynote speech from the team between LGBTQ+ Tee Hee, a groundbreaking project exploring comedy, connection and wellbeing. This is followed by a panel discussion with leading industry voices, taking a deep dive into artist wellbeing.
Opening night schedule:
5pm: Welcome from BEDLAM Partners
5.15pm: Keynote Speech – Trauma, Care and Boundaries with Rob Beck and Dr Anthony Gifford
5.45pm: Panel Discussion – Artist Wellbeing in Practice with Dr Mahnaz Hashmi, Soweto Kinch, and Alex Robinson
The evening will be rounded off by a networking session for those working or simply interested in the intersection between arts, mental health and wellbeing.
Can We Talk?
Fri 6 Nov 6.30pm & Sat 7 Nov 4,30pm, followed by post-show discussion. Tickets £7.95, available here.
Can We Talk? is a powerful new theatre production from Sampad, exploring the growing relationship between young people, artificial intelligence and mental health. Written by Rochi Rampal and developed through consultation with young people, parents, headteachers and mental health professionals, Can We Talk? draws on lived experiences and contemporary conversations around AI, wellbeing and digital relationships.
Theatre & Sanctuary Discussion & Workshop with Birmingham Rep
Sat 7 Nov 11am (Discussion) & 12.30pm (Workshop).
Birmingham 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.
Paper Weaving Workshop with Nilupa Yasmin
Sat 7 Nov 1pm – 3pm. Free, drop in.
Join textile artist Nilupa Yasmin for a free, hands-on creative workshop to support positive mental wellbeing. Explore the art of paper weaving, where patterns and colours come together to create unique woven pieces. Enjoy a moment of calm to discover, or re-connect with, the joy of making.
Chai + Chat with Sampad
Sat 7 Nov 2.15pm. Book here.
Chai and Chat is a discussion series created by Sampad. Join Dr Hassan Hussain and Connor Elliman for an open and informal conversation exploring wellbeing in the arts, from the pressures and challenges of creative practice to the ways we can support ourselves and each other. Come along for a cup of chai, conversation and a chance to connect with others working across the arts.
Let’s Dance Workshop with Sampad
Sat 7 Nov 3.15pm. Book here.
Let’s Dance is a gentle, inclusive movement workshop designed to support mobility, confidence and wellbeing through the joy of music and dance. Led by Kali Chandrasegaram, the session welcomes participants of all abilities to move at their own pace in a relaxed and supportive environment. Originally developed for care homes and community settings to support older adults and those at risk of isolation, this special BEDLAM session is open to everyone who wants to experience the positive impact of movement, music and connection.
We hope to see you at BEDLAM 2026. Explore the full programme and reserve your spot here.