From a thought-provoking new play exploring young people and artificial intelligence, to live music and contemporary and classical Indian dance, the new programme offers something for audiences of all ages and backgrounds.

Piali Ray, Artistic Director of Sampad, says: “We want to create a programme that reflects the people and times we live in, while celebrating the diversity of South Asian arts and the artists who bring these stories to life. Our 2026/27 programme gives us a chance to shine a light on the changing faces, experiences and stories within our communities. It’s about creating opportunities for people to come together, discover something new and connect with one another, reflecting our values of being rooted and responsive, connecting people and breaking down barriers.”

As part of BEDLAM Arts and Mental Health Symposium 2026, happening on 6th and 7th November, Sampad presents Can We Talk?, a new 30-minute theatre production exploring the growing relationship between young people, artificial intelligence and mental health.

Written by Rochi Rampal and developed with young people, parents, headteachers and mental health professionals, the play follows a teenager who begins turning to AI for emotional support instead of the people around them.

Set within a British South Asian family, Can We Talk? explores questions about technology, communication, mental health and what it means to be there for one another.

On 7th November, Sampad’s popular Stratford Road Walking Tour gets a special Diwali makeover, taking participants into the heart of Stratford Road as the neighbourhood prepares for the festival of light.

With shops stocking up on festive treats, colourful decorations appearing along the street and the aromas of sweets, spices and freshly prepared food filling the air, the tour will hear stories of migration, visit Asian shops, a Hindu temple, a wedding superstore and a Yemeni restaurant, whilst discovering some of the street’s lesser-known stories.

Along the way, the sights, sounds, flavours and traditions of Diwali bring Stratford Road to life, offering a glimpse into how the festival is celebrated and how traditions continue to evolve across generations.

On 12th November, Sampad and Birmingham Back to Backs welcomes sustainable fashion entrepreneur Rukhsana Sardar. Rukhsana will share her journey from working internationally in fast fashion to building her own upcycling business, exploring how unwanted clothing can be given a second life. The evening will include conversation, practical ideas and a Q&A, with participants invited to bring along an upcycling project for advice.

Birmingham-born dance artist and choreographer Vidya Patel returns to her home city for An Evening with Vidya Patel, bringing together Indian Classical and contemporary dance and music. She will be joined by regional dancers Shreya Vathsa and Shriya Sharma, bringing together artists with a shared connection to the region.

Trained in Kathak, Vidya draws inspiration from music, poetry and visual art. Since appearing on the first BBC Young Dancer in 2015, she has performed and presented work at some of the UK’s leading cultural venues, including Sadler’s Wells, the Royal Opera House, Southbank Centre, Tate Modern and the V&A. This special Birmingham performance celebrates her connection to the city and her continuing artistic journey.

Sampad and B:Music’s Midday Mantra returns this November and continues throughout 2027, bringing audiences a vibrant programme of South Asian music and performance.
The series travels across musical traditions and contemporary styles, from Indian classical and folk music to jazz, electronic and contemporary sounds.

2027 performances include New Year, New Sounds in January, Love Songs in February and Spirit of Spring in May, however opening the series in November 2026 will be Bangla Special, a lunchtime celebration of Bangla music and dance. Led by acclaimed UK-based singer and multi-instrumentalist Amith Dey, he will be joined by award-winning Bangladeshi vocalist Abanti Sithi, known as the Whistle Queen of Bangladesh.