The Swings

Monday 10 August 2026

11.00am to 4.00pm

Novum festival

All Newcastle

Part performance, part installation and part giant playground.

A giant swing set. Amazing aerial performers. And a chance for you to join the fun in between performances.

Watch as aerial artists climb, soar, swing and dance high above the ground, appearing throughout the day before inviting you to take a turn; to feel the rush of air, the rise and fall, and the simple joy of swinging through the sky.

As you swing, a specially created soundscape fills the air with memories, stories and reflections inspired by the universal joy of being on a swing.

Come and play, watch, listen and fly.

WHAT TO EXPECT

A lively festival atmosphere with crowds, outdoor activity and plenty of family fun.
A giant five-metre-high swing set with aerial artists performing above the crowd.
Four short outdoor performances throughout each day, with the swings open for everyone to enjoy in between.
An immersive soundscape inspired by memories, feelings and the freedom of being on a swing.

GOOD TO KNOW

Performance duration: approximately 15 minutes.
The swings are open for public use for an hour after each 15min performance.
Audiences are free to come and go throughout the day.
Suitable for all ages.
The soundscape contains spoken English.
The swing set is accessible for wheelchair users and prams.
Two accessible bucket-seat swings with harnesses are available; one adult-sized and one child-sized.
Transcript will be available via QR code by the installation
Audiences are welcome to watch from a range of viewpoints around the installation.
11am, 12.30pm & 2pm performances have BSL interpretation.
The 3.30pm performance has audio description.