Kaleidoscope Festival
A weeklong celebration of neurodiversity, inclusion and the talents of those living with a disability.
Storyhouse’s hugely popular Kaleidoscope Festival returns this July with another exciting programme.
Kaleidoscope Festival is a weeklong programme of performances, events, workshops, and activities that are programmed specifically for and by the learning-disabled community.
This year’s festival kicks off with our annual Chester Disability Pride Parade on Monday 6 July, followed by a week of events and performances, including the Kaleidoscope Disability Awards ceremony.
Click to download an easy-read flyer of some of this year's events
Our Accessibility Criteria
Frequently asked questions
- Who is Kaleidoscope Festival for?
Kaleidoscope Festival is specifically programmed for and by the learning-disabled community. Our Kaleidoscope focus group help us decide how the festival is run and what events and activities we programme.
Many of our events are open to all and are designed to bring together people from right across the community. If you’d like any more information before joining us, get in touch with a friendly member of our team.
- How much are tickets?
Most events at this year’s festival are Pay What You Feel starting from £0 – but please book your tickets in advance so we know to expect you.
Carers, support staff or other essential companions can access free tickets by signing up to the access register here.
For further support with your booking, please get in touch with us at hello@storyhouse.com
- Where are the events taking place?
The festival will take place across a number of different locations.
Some events will take place in Storyhouse, including the Garret Bar and Theatre spaces, the cinema, and The Kitchen. Others will take place outside the building and across the city.
- How can I get involved with Kaleidoscope in 2026?
We have several exciting opportunities to take part in this year’s events – click here to find out more. (Applications are now full and closed.)
You have until Sunday 26 April 11.59PM to nominate someone for an Award by clicking here.
If you’d like more information about Kaleidoscope Festival or would like to ask about getting involved with the festival or other Kaleidoscope events in the future, you can get in touch with our Communities Manager at nicola@storyhouse.com
- How is Kaleidoscope organised and planned?
This festival is co-curated with the community. This year we have been working each month with the social action group who meet at LIVE!
If you would like to be involved in the planning of future festivals, please contact nicola@storyhouse.com