Barbican Centre to host a one day festival curated for and by young people in March
On Sunday 29 March, the Barbican Centre will host the return of Young Barbican Takeover, a one-day festival curated for and by young people, celebrating creativity in all its forms. Running from 12pm to 6pm, the festival transforms the iconic Barbican spaces, including the Conservatory, Cinema 1, and various foyer areas, §into a hub of artistic expression, workshops, performances, and community engagement.
Image courtesy of Barbican Centre
The event provides London’s emerging creatives aged sixteen and over with the chance to explore the Barbican, share ideas, and connect with collectives and communities that are shaping the UK’s arts scene. The day-long festival features a wide range of activities, from live music sessions and poetry performances to film screenings, crafting, and interactive workshops.
For makers, there are opportunities to contribute to a collaborative tapestry with Craft Forward, design rosette badges with Material Grrrlz, or create zines with Artizine. The Level G Foyer hosts the Makers Market, showcasing ceramics, jewellery, and handcrafted publications from local artists. Musically, live performances curated with Shai Space and Sad Club Records, along with IRL sessions with silent disco headphones, highlight the work of London’s young talent.
In the Garden Room, the Rain Crew will lead a hip-hop dance workshop blending breaking and activism, while Compass Collective runs an energising drama session supporting young refugees and people seeking asylum. ARCCA (A Real Creative Community Archive), will host a workshop on starting a creative label or publishing house.
Cinema 1 presents screenings curated by SplicD Cinema, Ifriqiya Cinema, and T A P E Collective, celebrating African diaspora and women of colour in film. Meanwhile, Barbican Young Poets and special guest performers will take to the Conservatory Well for a day of poetry, with the Conservatory Terrace offering a Conversation Corner for networking and dialogue with participating collectives.
The Level –1 Foyer will be transformed into a roller rink, with Skate Cabal leading inclusive Learn to Skate sessions and open skating sessions, accompanied by music from Roundhouse’s young DJs.
Click here for the full programme of events.
Date: Sunday 29 March 2026. Location: Barbican Centre, Silk Street. London EC2Y 8DS. Price: from £12, or £10 for Young Barbican members.
