We have officially launched our entertainment search for the 2026 National Lived Experience Awards! Hosted by Cygnet, these awards celebrate people accessing mental health, learning disability, and autism services nationwide.
We are looking for talented service users and residents to take to the stage and perform live at the awards ceremony on Wednesday 23rd September, at Statfold Country Park in Tamworth! Whether you want to perform as a solo act or as part of a group, we want to hear from you.
Performance slots can be up to 5 minutes (or one song for musicians). Performers will need to be comfortable performing to a room of around 200 guests.
What kind of talents are we looking for?
We are open to all sorts of talents! In the past, we’ve had incredible performances from musicians, poets, and rappers. Your performance could include:
- Singing
- Poetry
- Dancing
- Live Music
- Comedy
- Something else!
Key Dates for Your Diary
- Application Deadline: Friday 24th July
- Successful Applicants Notified By: Friday 31st July
- The Main Event: Wednesday 23rd September at Statfold Country Park in Tamworth
How to Apply
1. Complete the Application Form.
2. Complete a photo consent form (only if you are happy for your photo to be taken).
3. Email the form/s to [email protected] by Friday, 24th July 2026.
Please Note: All applications will require sign-off from a member of staff before submission.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Who can apply to perform?
A: Applications are open to any service users and residents accessing mental health, learning disability, and autism services. We welcome both solo acts and groups!
Q: How long can my performance be?
A: Performance slots can be a maximum of 5 minutes long, or 1 song for musicians.
Q: Do I need staff support to apply?
A: Yes. All applications must be signed off by a member of staff before you send them in. A member/s of support staff will need to attend the awards ceremony with you.
Q: I want to play an instrument. What do I need to bring?
A: Please bring your own instrument and any required cables. The event’s AV team will be on hand to help you set up on the day, and a stage microphone will be provided.
Q: Can I use a backing track or a YouTube video?
A: Yes! The application form lets you specify if you need an audio track. If you are using a song by another artist, you can provide a YouTube link and choose whether you want the video (like a lyric video) or a performance slide displayed on the big screens. If you are performing your own song, you can send us the music file.
Q: What happens after I send my application?
A: A member of the Events Team will let you know this has been received. You will be told if you have been successful and will be performing at the awards by Friday 31st of July. We can then support you in preparing for the day, and let you know what time slot you will be doing. You and your support staff will then receive an official RSVP form to complete.
Q: Who do I contact if I have questions?
A: You can email the events team directly at [email protected]. For more general information about the National Lived Experience Awards and other ways to get involved, you can also visit livedexperienceawards.org.