The dust has settled, the final notes of the Somali disco have faded at the Bristol Beacon, and our hearts are full. DIASPORA! 2026 wasn’t just a festival; it was a ten-day testament to the vibrant, multicultural soul of Bristol and the South West.
From 1–10 May, our city transformed into a unified stage for the “unheard and undiscovered.” You proved that when we stand together as a global community, the results are nothing short of electric.
Help Us Shape the Future (And Win!)
Your feedback is the fuel that keeps this movement going. Hearing from you directly informs our future programming and provides the essential evidence we need for funding bids.
If you haven’t already, please take two minutes to share your experience.
The Prizes
Submit your survey by 25/05/26 to be entered into a prize draw for:
- 2 x Tickets to a show of your choice at Bristol Old Vic
- 2 x Tickets to a gig of your choice at The Jam Jar
- 2 x Tickets to a gig at Bristol Beacon
- A delicious meal for 2
More Than Just a Festival
What you experienced over the last ten days is a high-energy showcase of the work the Diverse Artists Network (DAN) does year-round. While DIASPORA! is our flagship celebration, we work behind the scenes every day to shift the cultural landscape:
| Our Impact | How We Do It |
| Agency | Connecting diverse talent with venues, festivals, and schools. |
| Networking | Hosting spaces that spark conversations between artists, funders, and corporations. |
| Consultancy | Delivering hands-on EDI training to help organisations become truly inclusive. |
| Residencies | Co-designing creative projects with refugees, migrants, and grassroots groups. |
“It bubbled across the city like magic water.”
“This year’s festival was a true testament to the power of collaboration. It bubbled across the city like magic water.”
— Deasy Bamford, Founding Director
An event of this magnitude is a massive puzzle, and every one of you was a vital piece. A massive thank you to:
- Our Artists for their bravery and vision.
- Our Venues for opening their doors and hearts.
- Our Funders: The Hugo Burge Foundation, Arts Council England, and Quartet Community Foundation.
- Our Volunteers & Team for the tireless hours and tears of pride.
Most of all, thank you to our Audiences. You proved that this vision isn’t just a plan—it’s a living, breathing blessing.
Keep the Momentum Going
We have big plans on the horizon. Our focus remains on developing an equitable arts industry where diverse experiences aren’t just “included,” but deeply valued.
Here is how you can support the movement:
- Donate: Help us keep programming accessible and our artists paid.
- Become a Member: Join our network as an individual artist or organisation.
- Book Through Our Agency: Work with our “cultural matchmakers” to book representative talent.
- Consultancy: Reach out for EDI training or grassroots creative guidance.
- Show Up: Keep attending events and supporting the incredible diverse talent in our region.
With love and solidarity,
The DIASPORA! Team
