Hello friends, Riya Kapoor here – writing to you from the joyful crossroads where community and creativity collide.
If you’re in Sheffield this summer, then you’re in for something truly special. The city’s stages, streets, and hearts will be bursting with free, family-friendly fun as Sheffield Theatres brings us not one but two vibrant festivals in July and August – Launchpad Festival and Together Festival.
These aren’t just events – they’re invitations. Invitations to celebrate voices that are often underrepresented, to experience the wonder of theatre made with and for the community, and to revel in dance, storytelling, music, and moments that stay with you long after the confetti settles.
From the powerful creativity of adults with learning disabilities at Launchpad, to the city-wide celebration of Together Festival with its theme of ‘wonder’, these festivals are free, inclusive, and full of heart. I’ll be there soaking it all in – and I hope you’ll be too.
Let’s take a closer look at what’s in store…
Launchpad Festival – A Stage for Every Voice
Thursday 10 – Friday 11 July
First up is Launchpad Festival, the vibrant celebration of theatre made by and with adults with learning disabilities and/or Autism. This two-day event, part of Sheffield Theatres’ brilliant Launchpad project, promises a warm, relaxed, and welcoming space where creativity takes centre stage — and everyone belongs.
There’ll be dance workshops, Q&As, and a beautifully designed sensory room (created by Laura Guthrie and inspired by the Launchpad Steering Group). And of course, there are performances you won’t want to miss:
🗓️ Thursday 10 July
- Original pieces from MENCAP and Sheffield Theatres
- Audio work created with carers
- Poetry from the Burton Street Foundation
🗓️ Friday 11 July
- Performances from DramaStarz, Enable, and Under the Stars (with their brand new girl group musical Sistarz)
- An improv jam with ZooCo, inspired by Perfect Show For Rachel
- Plus, a proper dance-your-socks-off DJ party to close it all out!
🌟 Together Festival – A Citywide Celebration of Wonder
Friday 1 – Saturday 2 August
Then in August, the joyful energy ramps up with Together Festival – two glorious days of performance, creativity, and community magic.
With the theme of ‘wonder’, the festival invites you to experience the stories and sounds of Sheffield’s neighbourhoods, brought to life through music, dance, live performance, storytelling, poetry, and more. There’ll even be a buzzing outdoor stage turning the city into one big party.
🗓️ Friday 1 August
- New storytelling from Manor and Castle Development Trust
- FACETIMES by Forced Entertainment and Element Society
- Heads Up: Frank’s Story by Dream Arts, exploring the journey of unaccompanied asylum seekers
- And a lyrical send-off with SlamBarz’s powerful music and poetry
🗓️ Saturday 2 August
Expect performances from:
- Pitsmoor Adventure Playground
- United Women Affiliation
- Blanket Fort Club
- Sheffield Theatres Youth Theatre
- Pinder Dance
- Manor After School Kids Klub
- Hosted by the unforgettable Sam Buttery (you’ll remember him as Audrey II from Little Shop of Horrors)!
🌈 Sensory Spaces & Soft Touches
Across both festivals, visitors can enjoy a specially curated sensory room, offering calm and creativity for those with sensory needs. The theme? A dreamy blend of “above the clouds” and “in the meadow” – sounds like bliss to us.
💬 A Word from the Organisers
“We’re thrilled to be hosting these festivals as a huge welcome for the city this summer,” said Simon Marshall, Community Project Manager at Sheffield Theatres.
“Launchpad is about celebrating the voices and talents of adults with learning disabilities, and Together Festival brings communities across Sheffield together in a whirlwind of creativity. Come along – it’ll be wonderful!”
🎟️ How to Join the Fun
Both Launchpad Festival and Together Festival are completely free, with lots of drop-in activities. Some performances are ticketed – booking opens Friday 20 June.
Visit sheffieldtheatres.co.uk or call the Box Office on 0114 249 6000.
About the Author
