Wales Unity Festival Returns with 12th Year of Inclusive Arts

Theater company Hijinx is bringing back the Unity Festival for its 12th year, showcasing learning disabled and autistic artists alongside international performers across Wales. The week-long celebration runs from June 30 to July 5, 2026, with early performances starting June 25.

The festival spreads across multiple Welsh cities, with main events at Wales Millennium Centre, Chapter Arts Centre, and The Glee Club in Cardiff. Satellite performances will kick off the celebration in Llanelli on June 25 and Mold on June 27, marking the first time the festival partners with Theatr Clwyd in North Wales.

Artists from Brazil, Germany, Italy, Argentina, and Belgium will perform alongside Welsh acts, presenting everything from comedy and drag to circus, dance, and theater. Street entertainment, foyer performances, and studio shows will fill venues throughout the week, creating multiple ways for audiences to experience inclusive arts.

This year introduces an Artist Exchange Conference partnered with Cultural Bridge, connecting creatives and decision makers from the UK and Germany. The event focuses on developing partnerships that explore social arts practice and future opportunities for international performance.

The Ripple Effect

The festival's expansion into North Wales strengthens Hijinx's growing presence in the region, where the company already operates an Academy. By partnering with established venues and festivals like the Cardiff Food and Drink Festival, Unity creates more entry points for people unfamiliar with inclusive arts.

Ben Pettit-Wade, Artistic Director of Hijinx, celebrates how transformative performances stick with audiences long after curtain call. Co-CEO Eloise Tong emphasizes the festival format lets newcomers discover what loyal followers already love about inclusive theater.

Local acts Same Hat Theatre and House of Deviant will share works-in-progress at Chapter Arts Centre, while comedian Richard Newnham produces a dedicated comedy night. The variety ensures audiences can find performances that speak to their interests while experiencing neurodivergent artistry.

Tickets go on sale April 17, giving Welsh audiences and visitors plenty of time to plan their celebration of arts that challenge perceptions and champion inclusion.