Bringing light, art, and community together.

Light Up Fest is a vibrant, community-driven celebration by Autin Dance Theatre in partnership with Midlands Arts Centre (MAC) and Birmingham City Council, featuring awe-inspiring performances, interactive installations, and large-scale processions. Bringing light, movement, and creativity to public spaces, the festival invites audiences to explore themes of connection, resilience, and hope. Light Up Fest is where art meets community, transforming ordinary spaces into extraordinary experiences.

“Light Up Fest is a unique celebration by Autin Dance Theatre that brings together communities to illuminate public spaces through art, dance, and storytelling. Designed to inspire connection and wonder, the festival blends large-scale performances with interactive experiences to spark joy and creativity in audiences of all ages.

Project’s Impact

Social, Cultural, and Artistic Outcomes

– Building stronger community connections through shared creative experiences

– Celebrating diversity and inclusivity in the arts

– Inspiring audiences to see public spaces in a new light—literally and metaphorically.

“Light Up Fest has transformed Birmingham’s urban spaces into hubs of artistic expression, fostering a sense of pride and belonging among participants while sparking curiosity and delight in audiences.”

How Participants Can Engage

– Call for volunteers to help with lantern-making workshops or parade logistics.

– Open invitations for schools, community groups, or local artists to participate.

– Encourage families to join interactive sessions and attend Lantern Procession performances.

We’re inviting local schools and community groups to join us in creating illuminated art for the festival parade! No prior experience needed—just bring your creativity!

We’re inviting local schools and community groups to join us in creating illuminated art for the festival parade! No prior experience needed—just bring your creativity!

Join us again for our 2nd edition of Light Up Fest in 2026 (to be confirmed)—a celebration of light, movement, and community! Reserve your spot now and be part of the magic, email us at hello@autindt.co.uk

 

Join us again for our 2nd edition of Light Up Fest in 2026 (to be confirmed)—a celebration of light, movement, and community! Reserve your spot now and be part of the magic, email us at hello@autindt.co.uk

Show Credits

Director:

Johnny Autin

Learning and Participation Manager:

Kirsten Tranter

BSL Interpreter: Olivia Whitter

Olivia Whitter

Workshop Leaders:

Shelley Eva Haden, Oliver Davis, Tori Drew, Saray Butler, Will Hodson & Freya Davis

Creative Producer:

Annalise McIntyre

Music:

EIF sound and music

Performing acts:

Falsefeet stilts, Ashbourne Festival & Bostin Arts

Special Notes:

Accessibility: This is BSL interpreted performance

“We are delighted to be partnering up with associate artist Johnny Autin and Autin Dance Theatre again for MAC’s inaugural Light Up Fest. We hope that lots of families and children will seize the chance to get hands-on and creative at free workshops that will culminate in bringing local communities together to light up the winter sky.”
Jo Carr
Performing Arts Producer @ MAC
“We’ve always wanted to put on a live outdoor event bringing communities and professionals together, so I am thrilled that we can work with MAC on this wonderful winter lantern procession, which will see a range of local community groups working with professional artists to produce beautiful lanterns together at creative, accessible workshops.”
Johnny Autin
Artistic Director of Autin Dance Theatre

Our Sponsors & Supporters

This project is proudly delivered by Autin Dance Theatre, commissioned by Midlands Arts Centre and supported by Birmingham City Council. 

Upcoming Tour Dates

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