The Riverfront Theatre and Arts Centre’s festival Big Splash, Wales’ largest free outdoor arts festival, is making a welcome return on Saturday 19 & Sunday 20 July 2025. A celebration of creativity and culture. Big Splash transforms the streets of Newport into a vibrant outdoor stage featuring live music, street theatre, dance performances, workshops, crafts, and family-friendly activities—all free of charge.
This year, Big Splash is launching an exciting Creative Call-Out, inviting artists and community groups to collaborate on new, dynamic outdoor works that highlight Newport’s rich stories, spaces, and communities. This unique opportunity encourages artists and groups to develop family-friendly performances, interactive walkabout events, or visual installations inspired by local narratives and public spaces.
Selected participants will receive dedicated support, including some weekly sessions with professional facilitators, to develop their ideas and bring their artistic vision to life. The festival aims to support at least five projects, with a particular focus on showcasing new and underrepresented voices within the community.
Andrea Ovey, Director of Business Development commented, “Events like Big Splash truly thrive when the community is at the heart of it. This year’s Creative Call-Out is the perfect opportunity to shine a spotlight on the incredible creative wealth that Newport has to offer. By inviting local groups and individuals to share their unique talents and ideas, we can create a vibrant and inclusive celebration that reflects the diverse stories and artistic expressions of our community. Whether it’s through dance, music, theatre, crafts, or any other form of art, we want to showcase the rich cultural tapestry that makes Newport so unique.”
How To Get Involved!
Calling all Community Groups!
Whether you’re a dance group, craft collective, theatre troupe, music ensemble, or any other type of community group, we want to hear your ideas on how you can bring Newport’s stories to life through outdoor arts.
Facilitators Call-Out
We’re also seeking skilled arts facilitators with experience in outdoor arts to guide and collaborate with community groups. Tell us about your expertise, passion for outdoor arts, and any proposed costs for materials and facilitation.
Apply Now!
Applications close on Monday 9 March 2025. To apply, complete the application form.
Be part of something extraordinary - let’s celebrate Newport’s creativity together at Big Splash 2025!
