The Wigan Arts Festival is a vibrant celebration of creativity that caters to audiences of all ages. The festival’s diverse programme features visual art, theatre, live music, and interactive performances. Attendees can enjoy events ranging from free entry to affordable tickets, with some experiences offering a pay-what-you-decide model, making it accessible for everyone.
A core mission of the festival is to ensure that high-quality cultural experiences are available to all, whether they are long-time supporters of the arts or first-time attendees. This commitment to inclusivity is evident throughout the festival’s lineup, which aims to bring people together through shared artistic experiences.
One of the standout features of this year’s festival is the return of the Wigan Open Exhibition. This beloved event showcases contemporary artwork from artists across the region and beyond. The exhibition provides a platform for emerging and established artists to display their work, offering visitors a chance to discover new talent and engage with creative expression.
Jonny Davenport, the artistic director of Old Courts, expressed his excitement about the collaboration with Wigan and Leigh College. He highlighted the significance of hosting the exhibition in Wigan Pier, an iconic heritage building. “Open exhibitions are all about opportunity,” Davenport said. “They open doors for artists and give people a reason to walk in and discover something new.”
He also reflected on the success of the 2018 exhibition, which featured around 300 entries and attracted thousands of visitors. “We’re hoping this one will be bigger and better,” he added. “We want the students involved to gain a genuinely valuable, hands-on experience working alongside professional artists and producing a major exhibition from start to finish.”
Another highlight of the festival is the return of Wigan Live, a musical event last seen in 2019. This addition celebrates both emerging and established musical talent, reinforcing Wigan’s growing reputation as a hub for live performance. Victoria Finch, one of Wigan Live’s producers, shared her enthusiasm for the event’s return. “We’re so glad to be back celebrating local live music from all over the borough,” she said. “The reception we’ve received after our break has been amazing. The fans are very much still here and as excited about the line-up this year as we are.”
The festival also offers a variety of theatrical experiences for all ages. One notable production is “Trouble, Struggle, Bubble and Squeak” by award-winning theatre maker Victoria Melody. This performance combines storytelling and stand-up comedy, creating a unique narrative that explores themes of resistance and humor.
In addition to theatre, the festival features the immersive Pulse Field installation by internationally recognized artist Carlos Bernal. This sensory environment transforms The Old Courts’ courtroom into a dynamic space using projections, lasers, and sound. Visitors are invited to step inside and experience art in a completely new way.
Audiences can also enjoy the high-energy Improversed event, which blends improvisation from a live band with spoken word in a lively, audience-fueled performance. This event promises an engaging and interactive experience for all who attend.
A major musical moment for the festival is the performance by the legendary band Space at Wigan Pier. This event connects Wigan’s cultural present with its rich musical heritage, offering an unforgettable night of music and celebration.
The festival is delivered in collaboration with several valued partners, including Wigan Council and Forging the Future. Local creatives and organizations such as TERM Art Classes and Wigan and Leigh College also play a key role in bringing the festival to life. Through these partnerships, the festival places culture at the heart of the town center, supporting artists, engaging communities, and creating meaningful opportunities for people of all ages to participate in the arts.
This collaborative approach reflects a shared ambition to celebrate Wigan’s creativity while continuing to shape its cultural future. The festival is made possible thanks to support from the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and Arts Council England.
Alongside the packed programme, the festival is also issuing a call for volunteers. Opportunities range from supporting events and welcoming audiences to gaining hands-on experience in festival production. Volunteering offers a valuable opportunity to be part of one of the town’s most exciting cultural moments.
Full programme details, ticket information, and volunteer sign-up can be found at www.wiganarts.co.uk. The Wigan Arts Festival runs from March 17 to 31.
