2026 is fast approaching, and with it comes a new year of great productions in Birmingham and across the Midlands. We've picked just a few of our favourites in theatre, dance, musicals, drag and cabaret that would make great Christmas gifts or, of course, a treat for yourself. ★ Fiddler on the Roof at The Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham ( 9th December 2025 - 3rd January 2026 ) “Completely sold out at the Barbican in London, this is a rare opportunity to catch this critically ac

Midlands-based charity, Saving Lives, welcomes a new national HIV Action Plan announced by the government today (1st December) on World AIDS Day.

The world premiere of Sherlock Holmes and the 12 Days of Christmas plays at The Rep Theatre, Birmingham this festive season. Penned by Fringe-favourites and the writers behind The Penny Dreadfuls, Humphrey Ker and David Reed, this winter whodunnit also features brand new songs from two renowned musical theatre songwriters and composers, Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, working together as a dynamic duo.

Birmingham creatives are joining forces to give voice to people living with HIV, centring stories of hope for the future as they mark this year’s World AIDS Day held on 1st December.

Birmingham-based queer non-profit, Fatt Projects, is hosting ‘The Big Bastard Bonanza’ fundraiser to recoup money in the wake Manchester Pride’s insolvency.

Based on the hit film of the same name, The Bodyguard Musical is a romantic thriller featuring the irresistible music of the great Whitney Houston. Starring international leading lady Sidonie Smith as Rachel Marron and Olivier Award nominee Adam Garcia as Frank Farmer, the musicals tells the story of superstar singer Rachel Marron who needs protecting from an unknown stalker, and finds this and more in the arms of former Secret Service Agent turned bodyguard, Frank.

Joe Lycett’s celebration of all things Brummie, the International Day of Birmingham, is returning for its second year in 2025.

LGBTQTeeHee is a programme from the Rep which brings LGBTQ+ people together in comedy and wellbeing. The theatre’s Drama Practitioner, Rob Beck, spoke to Midlands Rainbow in depth about the inspiration, aim and power of the comedy programme.

As part of an LGBTQ+ community comedy project, The Rep Theatre, Birmingham are hosting a free comedy masterclass with renowned comedian Angie Belcher. The event will be held on Saturday 16th August 12pm-4.30pm

Just weeks after reuniting with Black Sabbath, for a one-off final performance at Birmingham’s Villa Park, the world had to say goodbye to the band’s frontman and LGBT+ rights supporter, Ozzy Osbourne.

Eff-able, “a spicy anthology of queer crip poetry”, will celebrate its publication with an event held in Birmingham during Disability Pride Month.

The UK’s queer and trans-owned brewery, Queer Brewing, have launched a new collaboration with Brummy comedian and presenter, Joe Lycett and Queen’s Heath venue The Juke, in support of Queen’s Heath Pride.

West Midlands Police have charged a man with a series of thefts after people enjoying nights out in Birmingham city centre, including at venues in the Gay Village, were targeted.

Birmingham-based trans activist, writer and public speaker, Eva Echo, has been selected for a prestigious award by We Create Space; recognised for her contributions as a Queer Leader.

The award-winning Mean Girls: The Musical is coming to Wolverhampton’s Grand Theatre in June 2026, after a successful West End run.

Forward Film and Television Festival together with The Mockingbird Cinema are hosting an event that will screen three short films created by Birmingham’s own Joe Lycett, followed by a Q&A with the comedian, presenter and artist himself.

Defund Transphobes (Def Trans), a UK-wide grassroots activist community for trans+ justice, are organising trans outreach demos in Birmingham, including a topless demo in Victoria Square.

The Full Fatt Sound, a queer choir in Birmingham from Fatt Projects, have announced their first concert date in July.

that the Olivier Award®-winning and Tony Award® nominated Best Musical, Operation Mincemeat: A New Musical is launching a globe-spanning World Tour, hitting venues in Birmingham and across the Midlands.

Birmingham Royal Ballet (BRB) are returning to this year's Birmingham Pride during May Bank Holiday weekend with two separate performances, including El Amor es amor, in support of the city's vibrant LGBTQ+ community.