South Asian Heritage Month officially begins today, Wednesday 1 July, and Wolverhampton Grand Theatre is set to host a vibrant programme of events celebrating the richness, diversity and creativity of South Asian culture.

Curated in partnership with Jaivant Patel Company, the programme will welcome thousands of people from across the region to enjoy music, dance, storytelling, workshops and community activities inspired by this year’s theme, “Unity in Diversity.”

Live Music and Performance Highlights

The celebrations begin on Saturday 4 July with the UK debut of Rangle Sardar.

Formed in Punjab, the acclaimed group is led by vocalists Ajam Khan, Maninder Brar, Sabar Singh Khokar and Jaskaran Gill, who are joined by a full live band to showcase the energy and authenticity of Punjabi folk music.

On Saturday 11 July, The Bollywood Bratpack brings a fresh twist to beloved Hindi film classics. Fronted by British vocalist Chirag Rao, the show combines iconic Bollywood songs with the style and sophistication of classic swing music for an evening of nostalgia and entertainment.

Music continues on Saturday 18 July when Bhavik Haria presents an evening of Spiritual, Ghazal, Qawwali and Light Classical Music. Known for blending contemporary influences with traditional Bhajans, Bhavik’s performances celebrate cultural heritage while connecting with modern audiences.

Memory Café Returns

On Friday 17 July, from 10am to 12pm, Roshni Pink’s Memory Café will take place in the Grand Theatre’s Encore Lounge.

Designed for people living with dementia and their loved ones, the session will feature Indian music and dance inspired by Bhangra, Bollywood and Golden Indian Cinema favourites, encouraging guests to join in, reminisce and have fun together.

The event is free to attend, although advance booking is required via access@grandtheatre.co.uk.

A Day of Free Activities

Saturday 18 July will also feature a range of free events and activities celebrating South Asian culture, creativity and community.

Bhangra Fitness (10am–11am)

Get moving with a high-energy Bhangra-inspired workout combining fitness, fun and celebration.

Bhangra Tots Pirate Adventure (11am–12pm)

Join Captain Sohan, played by Sohan Kailey, for a family-friendly pirate adventure packed with storytelling, dancing, singing and interactive fun. Fancy dress is encouraged.

Free Henna Art (12pm–3pm)

Visitors can enjoy complimentary henna designs from artist Vanita Patel on the Dress Circle level.

Panjabi Tales of Willenhall Film Screening (12pm–3pm)

This powerful heritage project explores the experiences of Panjabi migrants in Willenhall through documentary film, photography and oral histories. A free Q&A with project lead Manpreet Darroch will follow the 2pm screening.

Spoken Word with Priyanka Joshi (12pm–3pm)

Take part in creative writing activities, poetry readings and an open mic session celebrating the sights, sounds and stories that reflect South Asia’s diversity.

Design a Sari Workshop (12pm–3pm)

Led by artist Daya Bhatti, this collaborative workshop invites participants to design and hand-paint a sari inspired by personal stories and cultural traditions.

Gajra Tissue Paper Flowers Workshop (12pm–3pm)

Create colourful handmade flowers while exploring themes of creativity, nature and cultural connection in this family-friendly workshop.

Tonia Daley-Campbell, Head of Audiences & Creative at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, said:

“Wolverhampton Grand Theatre is a theatre for everyone, and we are passionate about reflecting the cultures and stories of our entire community. We embrace South Asian Heritage Month with open arms, celebrating a culture that continues to enrich our city and shape our shared future. We are delighted to partner with Jaivant Patel Company once again to showcase a diverse range of voices, stories and lived experiences.”

Jaivant Patel, Artistic Director of Jaivant Patel Company, added:

“Celebrating South Asian Heritage Month in Wolverhampton began through conversations between Jaivant Patel Company and Wolverhampton Grand Theatre about how we could celebrate contemporary British South Asian culture within the city. Now in its second official year, we are excited to continue growing this collaboration and to reflect the many vibrant, evolving and diverse expressions of South Asian identity in all its forms.”

For tickets, event information and free activity bookings, visit grandtheatre.co.uk.