The Big Idea 2017, midlands strand, is a co-commission between Birmingham Weekender and IDFB which is produced by DanceXchange, the internationally-known Birmingham-based dance organisation. The Big Idea commissioning strand, first developed for IDFB 2016, creates work in outdoor places and unusual spaces that will excite, enthral and enliven the city, building and reaching diverse audiences.

Eleni Kyriacou, Producer for IDFB & DanceXchange says “We are extremely excited to be developing outdoor performance in the region and working with two exciting artists to extend their current practice, working in new innovative ways. We believe outdoor arts has the power to take the ordinary and make them extraordinary transforming our everyday cities and streets with emotive stories and experiences.”

Festival Directors, Graham Callister (Birmingham Hippodrome) and Piali Ray (Sampad) added: “These new commissions are hugely exciting for both Birmingham Weekender and International Dance Festival Birmingham 2018. Both pieces will inhabit spaces and places across the city bringing them to life with amazing new dance performances. We are delighted that these new commissions will premiere at Birmingham Weekender, before being further developed for IDFB 2018, cementing the West Midlands reputation for creating extraordinary outdoor dance.”