BEDLAM 2026: Theatre, Sanctuary and Wellbeing, Discussion

This facilitated discussion from Birmingham Rep explores how theatre can support the wellbeing of refugees and people seeking sanctuary. Drawing on The Rep’s Theatre of Sanctuary work and wider UK practice, the session will share learning, challenges, and approaches to creating supportive creative spaces.

This session focuses on reflection, evaluation, and sharing practice across organisations. It will reflect on current practice with local community groups and partners, examining the role of creative activity in supporting mental health, connection, and agency.

Participants will hear about the approaches, challenges, and impacts emerging from this work, alongside insights gathered from other Theatre of Sanctuary organisations across the UK. The session will create space for discussion and shared learning, inviting practitioners, artists, and organisations to exchange experiences and consider what meaningful, ethical arts engagement with sanctuary seekers looks like.

This is the first of 2 sessions from Birmingham Rep for BEDLAM 2026. Participants are encouraged to also book onto the second session here [ADD LINK TO OTHER SESSION], which offers a practical workshop. This session will also feature a short welcome at 11am from the BEDLAM 2026 Partners, introducing the second day of the Symposium. The discussion for this session will then begin at 11.15am, and will last 1 hour.

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.