Inclusive festival to return 'bigger and better'

Volunteer Jack (left) helped make the event, attended by James (right), a success

An inclusive theatrical event for disabled, deaf and neurodivergent performers will return "bigger and better" next year, after its first event exceeded all expectations, one of its organisers has said.

On Wednesday, the Bedford Inclusive Performing Arts Festival was held at The Quarry Theatre, in the town, as part of BedFringe.

Elise Gray, its director, said about 200 people were expected but more than 300 turned up.

She said it was "better than we expected" and she hopes to expand on what was "already an amazing day".

Spectrum Community Arts led a dance performance

The whole event was organised by volunteers and supported by local groups including Embrace, Living It Up, Born to Perform Dance School and Deaf Access Bedfordshire, Ms Gray said.

"It was just incredibly busy all day and it was so well supported by each group," she said.

"We hoped we would be well supported but it was even better than we expected, it was so collaborative.

"We now hope to improve on what was already an amazing day."

She said events like live theatre shows, interactive workshops, sing and sign sessions, sensory storytelling, and 'sound baths' took place.

Events were also British Sign Language interpreted.

Living It Up Delta Sonic Band performed live

Ms Gray added: "We're now going to get funding so can make it even bigger and better for next year and improve."

She said that some festivals were not always "as inclusive or accessible as they could be, and it can make you feel that you can't attend, that there isn't space to go".

She added: "It's not just a one-day event, if it brings on a host of workshops throughout the year, because lots of schools don't have any access to performing arts, that would be wonderful."

BedFringe Festival, including music, comedy, drama and theatrical performances continues until Sunday.

BedFringe is taking place from 23 to 27 July