BEDLAM 2026: Creating Theatre of Sanctuary Workshop - Developing Sustainable Practice

This practical workshop will explore creative, wellbeing-focused approaches to theatre-making with refugees and people seeking sanctuary, and how sustainable models for this work can be developed.

This session focuses on practical exploration and future-focused pedagogy. The interactive workshop explores how artists and organisations can develop sustainable theatre-making practices with refugees and people seeking sanctuary. Building on insights from the first session and The Rep’s ongoing work, participants will take part in creative exercises and discussions that explore wellbeing-centred theatre methodologies.

The workshop will introduce approaches being tested with Theatre of Sanctuary groups in the lead-up to Bedlam 2026 and invite participants to reflect on how creative practice can foster belonging, voice, and collective storytelling.

This is the second of 2 sessions from Birmingham Rep for BEDLAM 2026. Participants are encouraged to also book onto the first session, which offers a facilitated discussion. 

Presented as part of the BEDLAM Arts & Mental Health Symposium, running Fri 6 and Sat 7 Nov 2026. Join us for talks, workshops, discussions and performances, all exploring the relationship between arts, creativity, mental health and wellbeing. BEDLAM is a partnership between Sampad, Birmingham Rep and Midlands Arts Centre.