With Autumn on the horizon, so is a new season of creativity and discovery at Lakeside Arts. Workshops and comedy, drama and dance, there’s something for everybody during our September-December programme. With sessions that will amaze and inspire, here’s you first look at months of entertainment and jam-packed excitement.
As the days grow shorter, Lakeside Arts comes alive with a vibrant season of exhibitions, performances and special events. Discover internationally renowned artists, celebrated designer-makers, exciting returning favourites and magical festive experiences for all ages. You can find the full list of events in our What’s On listing, or by picking up a brochure the next time you visit. Here’s just a selection of the highlights from our autumn programme.
AN UNMISSABLE SEASON STARTER
We’re delighted to open the season with LagosPhoto: Stories of Movement and Belonging – a stunning indoor and outdoor exhibition displaying photographed moments from one of Africa’s most significant contemporary arts festivals.
Opening on Saturday 19 September, this thought-provoking exhibition brings together artists from across Africa, the diaspora and beyond, exploring themes of borders, memory, belonging, and human movement through powerful photographic works. Extending beyond the Djanogly Gallery, visitors can discover captivating outdoor installations around Lakeside and across University Park campus, encountering photography in unexpected places and experiencing the exhibition as part of the wider landscape.
A SEASON OF FAMILY CREATIVITY
From hands-on workshops to magical performances, this season is packed with opportunities for children and families to create, explore and enjoy unforgettable experiences together.
Create magical memories with The Snowsmith, this year’s festive family production comes from acclaimed puppetry company and Lakeside favourites, Half a String. Running from Saturday 5 December to Sunday 3 January, this enchanting winter adventure follows inventor Eira as she sets out to bring snow back to her town. Featuring breathtaking puppetry, live music and captivating storytelling, The Snowsmith is packed with wonder, laughter and festive spirit for all ages.
We’re also excited to introduce Express and Explore, a brand-new series of SEND-friendly arts and crafts workshops led by Associate Artist Matthew Leigh-Brown. Across three sessions on 10 October, 7 November and 5 December, participants will enjoy creative activities designed to encourage self-expression, imagination and exploration in a supportive setting. These inclusive workshops offer a fantastic opportunity for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities to get creative and make new discoveries.
For little ones who are looking to immerse themselves in a world of magic, check out Magical Garden – a calming multi-sensory space where soft lights glow, colours shimmer and nature comes to life. Designed especially for ages 0-3, this welcoming experience encourages relaxation, exploration and wonder in a safe, inclusive environment. Drop in on Saturday 3 & Sunday 4 October, 11am-2.30pm.
Looking for some kids fun this October half-term? On Sunday 1st November at 12.30pm and 3pm, Acrobatic Adventures presents Mother Deer, a captivating family performance filled with wonder, mischief and magic. Combining aerial acrobatics, dance, sensory theatre and live music, this enchanting tale invites audiences on a journey through the natural world. Suitable for ages 3+.
LUSTRE IS BACK FOR THE AUTUMN SEASON
Get ready for the return of the heart of the autumn season! Lustre, our annual, nationally renowned contemporary craft fair. Returning to Lakeside Arts from Friday 6 – Sunday 8 November, this much-anticipated event brings together over 50 of the UK’s leading designer-makers, offering a unique opportunity to discover exceptional handmade work from across the country.
From striking jewellery and beautifully crafted ceramics to textiles, glass, leather and woodwork, Lustre showcases the very best in contemporary craft and design. Whether you’re searching for the perfect gift or looking to treat yourself, it’s the ideal place to meet makers, browse original creations and celebrate the extraordinary skill and creativity of the UK craft sector.
NATURAL BEHAVIOUR – A PROFOUND AND HILARIOUS PERFORMANCE
Award-winning dance company Thick & Tight return to Lakeside on Friday 16 October with Natural Behaviour, a witty and thought-provoking exploration of what it means to be “natural”. Blending dance, satire, poetry and queer storytelling, this acclaimed production was named The Guardian’s No. 1 Dance Show of 2025 and won the UK Theatre Award for Achievement in Dance.
MUSIC AT CHRISTMAS
We’re also delighted to welcome back pianist and storyteller Will Pickvance on Saturday 12 December with Rag and Bone Christmas, a festive show-concert full of music, stories and seasonal charm for ages 8+.
As a finale for our autumn season for chamber and folk music we are presenting our first ever concert at the East Midlands Conference Centre – Jess Gillam Band’s Shine on Sunday 13 December, a show packed with energy, joy and vibrant music that is sure to bring a smile to your face.
Perfectly wrapping up another amazing season, see what takes your fancy in this autumn.
