Critically acclaimed arts initiative Black Country Touring (BCT) is providing Midlands theatre-goers with a host of free-to-attend shows to enjoy during the school summer holiday.

With a focus on bringing professional touring productions to communities across the region, BCT is presenting an extensive programme of family-friendly entertainment at various venues throughout August, as well as film events, workshops, performances for adults and more...

Included in the line-up is Sleepy Seeds (pictured), an interactive family show boasting catchy songs and unusual instruments. The production is one of 28 free Black Country Touring presentations being performed as part of Sandwell Arts Festival. More free theatre can be seen at the Big Kids Theatre Weekend at West Smethwick Park & Pavilion.

To find out more about the line-up of shows, and when and where they’re happening, visit bctouring.co.uk   

Summer Highlights from Black Country Touring

The Explorers by FRONTLINEdance - Tuesday 30 July at 2pm at Smethwick Library, 100 High St, Smethwick B66 1AA & Monday 5 August at 11am at Wednesbury Library, Walsall Street, Wednesbury WS10 9EH

The Explorers! is a multi-sensory, wondrous adventure, where the audience get to help bring to life two stories, with dance, colour, sound, and teamwork. The show is a fully inclusive interactive performance and is relaxed, engaging, accessible and fun. It was created for those with specific access needs, and we made the work with disabled children, hospice/hospital patients and their families, so it's fully accessible for all to enjoy and suitable for children aged 3+.

Show length: 40 minutes
Age rating: 3+
Part of Sandwell Arts Festival

Victor and Albert’s Variety Night - Thursday 1 August at 7.30pm at Great Bridge Library, Sheepwash Lane, Tipton DY4 7JF & Monday 5 August at 7pm at Stone Cross Library, Beverley Road, West Bromwich B71 2LH

Join identical twins Professor Victor and Dr Albert for an evening of riotous comedy, interaction, original songs, games, mayhem and a sprinkling of magic.
A good old-fashioned two-man variety show brought kicking and screaming into the 21st Century.
‘An excellent evening of musical comedy.’

Show length: 120 minutes
Age rating: 14+
Part of Sandwell Arts Festival

Laika The Space Dog by Lori Hopkins - Tuesday 6 August at 11am at Stone Cross Library, Beverley Road, West Bromwich B71 2LH;  Tuesday 6 August at 2pm at Hamstead Library, Tanhouse Centre, Hamstead Road, Great Barr, Birmingham B43 5EL;  Saturday 10 August at 11am at Langley Library, Barrs Street, Oldbury B68 8QT; Saturday 10 August at 2pm at Blackheath Library, 145 High Street Blackheath, Rowley Regis B65 0EA & Wednesday 21 August 1pm, 2pm and 3pm at West Smethwick Park, West Park Rd, Smethwick B67 7JJ

This is the story of an ordinary dog who went on an extraordinary journey into space.
Laika is stray dog who is trained up for an exciting space mission. The training is rigorous and Laika prepares to blast off!
Laika The Space Dog is a lively family show that retells the story of the first dog in space (with a twist)! Inspired by the true story, this show offers an alternative to the tragic tale allowing Laika to zoom through the asteroid belt, meet Space apes and return to earth in a shower of glory.

Show length: 20 minutes
Age rating: 3+
Part of Sandwell Arts Festival

Thingamabob by Matt Pang - Saturday 10 August at 1pm, 3pm and 4.30pm
Venue: West Smethwick Park, West Park Road, Smethwick B67 7JJ

With an internationally renowned blend of circus, invention and humour, Matt Pang brings to life a giant ball slinging, self exploding piece of handcrafted gadgetry, inspired by the famous Rube Goldberg machines and Heath Robinson contraptions. Be part of the mayhem as our intrepid inventor risks nerve wracking failure to bring you one perfect chain reaction… with some help from his little assistant.

Show length: 45 minutes
Age rating: 3+
Part of The Big Kid’s Theatre Weekend

Canine Teeth by Ayse Balkose - Saturday 10 August at 3pm

Embark on a captivating journey with "Canine Teeth," a remarkable stand-up monologue that blends humor, raw emotion, and cultural introspection. Explore the complexities of societal expectations, resilience, and personal fulfillment as you witness the protagonist's transformative experiences in Turkish society. This thought-provoking production challenges traditional gender roles and sparks conversations about identity and societal norms. With its universal themes and relatable storytelling, "Canine Teeth" invites you to reflect, question, and embrace the power of personal authenticity. Be moved, entertained, and inspired by this unforgettable theatrical experience that leaves an indelible mark on your heart and mind.

Show length: 60 minutes
Age rating: 14+
Part of Sandwell Arts Festival

Mughal Miniatures by Sonia Sabri Company - Friday 23 August at 2pm
Venue: Riverside House, Canal Street, Stourbridge

Mughal Miniatures is a fun and upbeat outdoor performance event for all the family, which celebrates and takes inspiration from the exquisite traditional art of Indian and Persian miniature painting. Performers in sumptuous costumes create vibrant and colourful mini worlds of dance, music and puppetry.

Show length: 40 minutes
Age rating: 3+