The final weekend of September sees Birmingham city centre come to life with a huge programme of free outdoor performances, art installations, musical acts and entertainment. The colourful lineup includes specially commissioned work, world premieres and a host of workshops and chances for the public to get involved.
'Maudits Sonnants' is this year's main attraction and the brainchild of French performing company Transe Expresse. The exhilarating shows brings together actors, trapezists, acrobats, dancers and singers for an ariel extravaganza which takes inspiration from musical boxes and fairground rides (Aug 25-26).
Much of the programme is family-friendly with highlights including a toy theatre building workshop, the chance to add to a collaborative textile artwork using software and a digital sewing machine, and an outdoor performance called Urban Astronaut which combines an exciting sounding flying machine, with storytelling elements and dance.
Arts venues and organisations hosting events include the Hippodrome, Mac, Birmingham Rep and Ikon Gallery. Find the full programme here.