Lived Experiences 2026

Returning to the Salford Arts Theatre this May, Lived Experiences is a new writing event raising awareness for mental health issues.

Held in conjunction with Mental Health Awareness week, and partnered with the charity Back On Track, Lived Experiences will showcase 7 fantastic and brand-new short plays.

The plays range from comedy to drama, naturalism to absurdism.Compered by Manchester comedian Will Rice (Frog and Buckets Beat the Frog finalist) , Lived Experiences 2026 promises to not only be a crucial talking point around mental health, but also an entertaining night of fresh talent and creativity.

The event boasts a team of talented writers, directors, and actors, including (but not limited to!) award-winning writer Barbara Diesel (Best Play Greater Manchester Fringe Festival, 2024) , and nominated directors Paddy Nicholls (Best Director and Best of the North - Manchester Short Film Festival 2017) and Madison French.Please be advised that some pieces will feature strong language and potentially triggering content; the recommended age is therefore 16+.

A full list of trigger warnings will be available ahead of and on the night and re-iterated at the introduction of each play, with opportunities for audiences to step out between each piece.

Mental health resources will be available.