Published Tuesday, 30th June 2026
We are excited to reveal the line-up for this year’s Arts Takeover, which promises to entertain, inspire and surprise visitors to Redhill between 5 and 12 September.
Headliners include Blur drummer, Dave Rowntree; 80s Ska band, Potato 5; and author of the Rivers of London series, Ben Aaronovitch. But there will be plenty of homegrown talent on show too; along with opportunities to take part and join in. This Redhill Arts Takeover sees artists, performers and local organisations come together to celebrate creativity and connect local communities.
Cllr Richard Biggs, Leader of the Council and Executive Member for Economic Development and Leisure, says: “The Redhill Arts Takeover gets bigger, bolder and better each year thanks to the fantastic efforts of all the local artists, organisations and businesses that support it. It shows just how much creative talent we have, how it can bring people together, and how it contributes to a thriving town centre.
“This year’s programme is packed with exciting performances to look forward to, as well as activities to inspire you. Dancing, drawing, music and poetry will be spilling out onto the streets so expect plenty of surprises to entertain you too. The feel-good festival invites everyone to celebrate art and culture and to enjoy Redhill. I encourage you to join in.”
More than 30 events will take over venues across the town during the week-long festival and many performances are completely free to enjoy.
Performances to look out for
Now in its fourth year, Arts Takeover welcomes back to Redhill some past favourites, such as the Recycled Fashion Show and music stages with local bands. There is also a feast of fresh and unfamiliar activities to look forward to.
New for 2026 will be Write Out Loud – a series of events celebrating the written and spoken word. You can watch15-minute performances of new local writing, including bespoke spooky storytelling; take part in the Spoken Word Café; or come along to a special local author event.
As Redhill’s live music scene continues to grow, so too does the festival’s musical offering. Music in the Town this year will feature two live music stages on the opening and closing Saturdays of the festival – one run by the local music charity, Redstart, on 5 September; and Up the Junction curated by Canada Hill on 12 September.
Redhill Arts Takeover is also excited to be working with Front Room Songs, who are presenting a programme of unique gigs and events. Katie Smith from Front Room Songs says: "As a lifelong Redhill resident, it's incredible to see Redhill Arts Takeover grow into one of the most exciting events in the town's calendar.
“Through Front Room Songs, I'm contributing a programme that ranges from intimate house concerts featuring Blur's Dave Rowntree and a pop-infused performance from harpist Rosza; as well as a family music event from Mini Folk; and a Neon life drawing experience. It's a mix that reflects exactly what makes the Takeover so special - unexpected experiences, amazing artists and something for everyone."
Opportunities to be creative
To inspire people to get creative themselves, there are plenty of activities and workshops where you can improve your skills or discover new talents. From baby ballet to easy improv; a screen make-up masterclass to a Mauritian music workshop; there’s something for all ages and interests to enjoy.
You can see the full line up and book activities at www.reigate-banstead.gov.uk/arts-takeover
Any costs are kept as low as possible and are designed to cover professional fees only.
Taking over the town
Arts Takeover is developed and organised by Reigate & Banstead Borough Council in recognition of the power of art and culture to improve people’s wellbeing, connect local communities and support a flourishing town centre.
In addition to the Redhill Arts Takeover, the council currently runs community art programmes in the north of the borough and in Westvale Park to the south. It also supports and advises local arts organisations and projects across the borough, such as the Horley Arts Festival.
The Redhill Arts Takeover couldn’t happen without the support of local venues prepared to be overrun with creativity. The council would like to thank ASG Community Centre, Belfry Shopping Centre, Busy Beans café, Florries Café, Front Room Songs, Garibaldi Community Pub, The Junction, Posadero Lounge, Redhill Library, St Matthew’s Church and United Reform Church.