We are incredibly proud to share the success of our very first WOW! Fest — Walsall Outdoor Wonders Festival — and what a joyful celebration it was! 🌟
Over 2 unforgettable days, Walsall Arboretum was transformed into a vibrant stage for world-class performances, inspiring workshops, and joyful moments of connection. From mesmerising aerial dance and thought-provoking street theatre to walkabout wonders, collaborative community choreography, and yes even karaoke in the rain. The festival was a true showcase of creativity, resilience, and togetherness.
Despite a few showers, spirits were high, and the energy was infectious. Smiles, movement, and laughter filled every corner of the park, proving that when a community comes together, the magic happens no matter the weather.
A heartfelt thank you to our incredible audiences, talented artists, dedicated partners, generous funders, and, of course, the wonderful Walsall community for making this possible. WOW! Fest 2025 has set the stage for many more celebrations of dance, arts, and shared stories to come.
✨ Throwback to WOW! Fest
🌀 Headline Show – Up in the Sky
A breathtaking new aerial production performed on a giant 7-metre circular rig. Incredible 6 performers soared, spinned and flew in a poetic tale of siblings, belonging, and imagination – created with young people across Walsall.
| |
🎭 Spotlight Stage Outdoor Performances by regional Companies
Audience could enjoy performances by incredible regional companies including Ascension Dance, Mercurial Dance, Feet Off the Ground, False Feet and Linden Dance – presenting high-energy, thought-provoking performances in the open air.
🧗 Free Workshops & Activities
Audiences could take part in parkour tasters, creative movement sessions, games, and drop-in activities suitable for all ages. Family-friendly, inclusive and accessible activities around the festival
🙏 Thank You!
Everyone at Autin Dance Theatre would like to thank our funders, partners, and supporters—including all the incredible individuals and organisations who backed our recent crowdfunding campaign. Your belief in our vision for this festival has helped bring it to life. We are forever grateful, and we hope you enjoyed every moment of WOW! Fest 2025.
Funders:
Funded by UK Gov, Walsall Council, Walsall MakerFest Fringe 2025, Arts Council England, West Midlands Combined Authority, Wellbeing Walsall, Healthy Walsall, Crowdfund Walsall, WS4 Dental Care, Optimax, Backstage Trust, Sport England & The Foyle Foundation
Partners & Supporters
Walsall Arboretum, Black Country Dance Hub, OPUS – Outdoor Places Unusual Spaces, Caldmore Community Garden, FABRIC, Birmingham Hippodrome, STEAMhouse – Birmingham City University & Royal Birmimgham Conservatoire
📢 See you next year!
It’s been an incredible start to our inaugural festival, and we’re already looking forward to welcoming you back next year! If you’d like to get involved, whether as a participant, a volunteer, or by hosting a promotional stand at our next edition – we’d love to hear from you. Simply email us at hello@autindt.co.uk for more details.
