Hundreds of talented performers from across the city – including school students, older people and people with learning disabilities – will be singing, dancing, acting, telling jokes and reciting poetry at Leeds Playhouse from 26 June–11 July as part of Open Season.

Open Season is the Playhouse’s annual festival of community creativity. The 2026 event is an exciting opportunity for individual performers and groups from across the Leeds City Region to share their talents with audiences at one of the most prestigious regional theatres in the country.

The theme for 2026 is Happy Birthday, Leeds! to mark the milestone 400th anniversary of the Playhouse’s hometown receiving its royal charter and becoming a city. Performances will take place in the Courtyard Theatre, Bramall Rock Void studio space and in the Level 2 Bar/Kitchen.

Lily Craig, Director of Playhouse Connect, said: “Open Season is a fantastic annual celebration of the talented people who live in our wonderfully creative city. It’s a chance for everyone to come together, to challenge themselves to perform in a professional theatre, and to enjoy the performances of friends, neighbours and nearby communities in a warm, welcoming and supportive environment.”