A celebration of creative arts encompassing humour, sound and stage productions will take over numerous locations across the country this summer.
The Hijinx Unity Festival 2026 is scheduled between the end of June and early July, with events arranged in Cardiff, Llanelli and Mold.
Funding has been confirmed from several bodies including the Arts Council of Wales, the Welsh Government through Events Wales, and The Leche Trust.
Ben Pettit Wade, who serves as artistic director and co-CEO of Hijinx, explained that productions capable of shifting perspectives tend to remain memorable. Audiences at this edition can anticipate pieces ranging from a recreation of the first moon landing to an unconventional interpretation of Carmen.
The initiative, now entering its twelfth iteration, champions accessible arts and highlights performers with learning disabilities alongside autistic artists.
The lineup includes overseas acts from across Europe alongside domestic companies.
Main presentations will take place at Wales Millennium Centre and Chapter Arts Centre, with additional performances at The Glee Club and outdoor activities in Cardiff Bay.
Eloise Tong, executive director and co-CEO of Hijinx, noted that by combining neurodivergent and neurotypical creators, Hijinx demonstrates a world embracing accessibility and questioning preconceptions. A loyal following has developed over time, attending productions and supporting the work. A festival setting allows the organisation to connect with new audiences who have not yet discovered Hijinx or the Unity Festival, giving them access to inclusive performance and theatre.
Hijinx is partnering with the Cardiff Food and Drink Festival, running July 3 through July 5, to deliver spontaneous outdoor performances close to Roald Dahl Plass.
These family-appropriate shows will include street theatre, circus skills and drag entertainment.
A professional symposium will also be held at Wales Millennium Centre during the festival, backed by Cultural Bridge.
The gathering will connect creative practitioners from the United Kingdom and Germany to examine collaboration prospects and the direction of international performance.
The festival opens with street entertainment in Llanelli on June 25 and in Mold on June 27.