Springle brings live performance to the heart of Wealden this April

Two free events in Hailsham and Uckfield fill town centres and green spaces with illuminated street theatre, music, storytelling and creative activities for families.

On Saturday 18 April at 7.30pm, Springle Hailsham transforms Hailsham High Street into an outdoor spectacle. Audiences experience ‘Lampadophores’ by French street theatre company Picto Facto, as illuminated inflatable puppets, live music and acrobatic performers fill the street with movement and light. The high street becomes a stage for the evening, drawing families and visitors into a memorable shared experience.

On Saturday 25 April from 11.30am to 3pm, Springle Uckfield brings Luxford Field to life with a free family day of walkabout theatre, storytelling, music and creative workshops. Mahogany Carnival Arts brings bold parade energy, while Richard Storybeard shares magical tales inside his yurt and Ben Watson delivers lively children’s comedy in Mind the Monsters. Anusha Subramanyam of Beeja blends Indian storytelling and dance, Circo Rum BaBa’s stilt performers tower above the crowd and Dan the Hat keeps audiences laughing with fast-paced juggling and tricks. The UK African Acrobats showcase extraordinary strength and skill, and Pongo the mischievous giant puppet roams the field delighting families. The day ends with a joyful community parade where everyone is encouraged to take part.

Springle has been commissioned by Wealden District Council and is produced by 18 Hours.

Councillor Rachel Millward, Alliance for Wealden (Green Party) and lead councillor for Community, Culture and Communications and deputy leader of the council, said, “Springle brings something fresh and uplifting to our town centres. It gives families the chance to step outside, experience live performance together and see familiar places in a new light. We are proud to champion an event that celebrates creativity and makes culture accessible to everyone.”

Dr Mandy Curtis, Director of 18 Hours, said, “Springle is about creating shared experiences in the public spaces people use every day. Working in partnership with Wealden District Council allows us to bring high-quality live performance directly into the heart of local communities. We are delighted to see Hailsham High Street and Luxford Field transformed into places where families can gather, take part and experience something memorable together.”

Springle highlights Wealden’s commitment to accessible cultural experiences in public spaces. By animating town centres and green spaces, the festival encourages residents and visitors to explore and experience creativity across the district.

Both events are free to attend.

For more information, please click here www.explorewealden.co.uk/springle