Signal Festival is a radical showcase of youth talent and opportunity.

group of people participating in a screenwriting workshop

Create

Signal aims to build creativity in Swindon and give young people the necessary skills and resources. We want young artists and enthusiasts to feel like they can succeed artistically in their hometown and flourish creatively. Our programme is delivered by a wide range of professional artists, giving you a chance to try new art forms, discover your talents and develop your existing skills. Beginners and experienced all welcome!

What's on

young person performing at showcase event

Inspire

We firmly believe that any young person interested in art is just as capable of artistic achievement as anybody else. The exhibitions and showcases included in our program are made with the aim to inspire budding artists and individuals who want to pursue art as a future career. Careers events are purposely included to guide young people in the right direction towards their job goals in the arts industries. Our team of young producers hope that the creation of the festival will give others hope that they can do anything they put their mind to.

About us

Celebrate

We want to be able to highlight and showcase all talent that Swindon has to offer, both professional and amateur; everyone deserves a platform in which they can show the public what they can do!

Get involved

Signal Festival in numbers

Signal Festival thrives on collaboration.
We couldn't bring it to life without the incredible support of our team and partners.

Swindon’s young people are more likely than the UK average to experience mental health challenges.

Wiltshire Needs Analysis, 2023

“I keep coming back”

For the first year of Signal I was a volunteer. I loved it so much, I came back for the next two years. It is important because it helps others as well as myself to see what is possible for young creatives in Swindon.

Leyland Butler - Young Assistant Producer

“Showing everyone what Swindon has to offer!”

There’s the need to show everyone exactly what Swindon has to offer because a worrying amount of people (particularly young people) are unaware of what is happening in the local art scene and are of the belief that you need to leave town in order to explore the arts. Signal Festival was created to prove those assumptions wrong.

Clarissa Boyce-Johnson - Young Producer

“I'm excited about the future!”

I’m most looking forward to the development and wider reaches of the festival as it grows over. I’m excited to be a part of soemthing that is going to be the spark for young people’s artistic journeys.

Arlo Carter - Founder Producer

“Give young people a chance”

I started as a performer and this is my second year as a producer. It's been really fulfilling creating opportunities and showcases for young artists across all strands.

Louise Aust - Young Producer

“Congratulations Swindon”

Signal Festival is one of the most important creations in Swindon's arts scene. We've been blown away by the passion, talent and achievement of the young team.

Arts Council South West