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02 July 2026 05 July 2026
Crossed Wires Podcast Festival 2026Crossed Wires Podcast Festival returns to Sheffield in July 2026 — bringing four days of live podcasts, big names, and buzzing city-wide events to South Yorkshire.
Described by The Sunday Times as “buzzy”, “zippy” and “great fun”, Crossed Wires has quickly grown into one of the world’s biggest podcast festivals, with up to 35,000 people expected to descend on Sheffield across four packed days.
What Is Crossed Wires Podcast Festival?
Running from Thursday 2 to Sunday 5 July 2026, the festival takes over multiple venues across Sheffield, combining headline live podcast recordings with a lively Fringe, pop-ups, after-parties and one-off shows.
It’s designed for both first-time visitors and returning fans — whether you’re deep into podcast culture or just looking for something different to do in Sheffield this summer.
First Wave Line-Up Announced
The first wave of acts confirmed for 2026 includes:
Dig It with Jo Whiley & Zoe Ball
How to Fail with Elizabeth Day
The Blindboy Podcast with Blindboy Boatclub
If I Speak with Ash Sarkar & Moya Lothian McLean
Get A Grip with Angela Scanlon & Vicky Pattison
Bold Politics with Zack Polanski
More acts are still to be announced, with organisers promising an even bigger and broader programme.
BBC Sounds & Free Events
BBC Sounds will also return in 2026, bringing free events, signature storytelling, and familiar BBC voices to the heart of the festival — making Crossed Wires one of the most accessible large-scale festivals in Sheffield.
A City-Wide Festival Experience
From intimate pop-ups to immersive storytelling, Crossed Wires continues to evolve. Expect:
Live podcast recordings
A buzzing Fringe programme
After-parties and special events
Opportunities to discover new podcasts
A welcoming crowd of fellow fans
It’s not just a festival — it’s a celebration of Sheffield’s growing reputation as a home for live conversation, creativity, and independent culture.
👉 Perfect for anyone searching for things to do in Sheffield July 2026, Sheffield festivals, or podcast events in the UK.
For full line-up details and updates, visit: https://crossedwires.live
0:00
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29 June 2026 13:00 04 July 2026 20:30
Priscilla Queen of the Desert: The Musical – Live at the Lyceum, SheffieldWhat is Priscilla Queen of the Desert: The Musical?
Priscilla Queen of the Desert: The Musical is the dazzling stage adaptation of the Oscar-winning 1994 film, returning with a brand-new 30th anniversary tour and stopping at the Lyceum in Sheffield.
This joyful Broadway and West End hit follows three friends as they travel across the Australian Outback in a battered bus called Priscilla, setting out to put on the show of a lifetime — and discovering far more about themselves along the way.
What’s the story about?
As the journey unfolds, the characters confront prejudice, challenge expectations and celebrate identity, diversity and self-acceptance. It’s a heart-warming and hilarious story about friendship, love, unity and being unapologetically yourself — all wrapped up in high heels, glitter and show-stopping spectacle.
Who stars in the production?
This touring production features a standout cast including:
Adèle Anderson (Fascinating Aïda) as Bernadette
Kevin Clifton as Tick / Mitzi
Nick Hayes as Felicia / Adam
Peter Duncan as Bob / Preacher
The show is directed by Ian Talbot OBE, with choreography by Olivier Award-winner Matt Cole, and stunning all-new costumes by BAFTA-winner Vicky Gill.
What music can audiences expect?
The show is packed with iconic disco and dance anthems from the 80s and 90s, including:
It’s Raining Men
I Will Survive
Hot Stuff
Girls Just Wanna Have Fun
Finally
It’s a non-stop celebration designed to get audiences clapping, singing and dancing in their seats.
Why is this show such a crowd-pleaser?
Praised as “the best feel-good show since Mamma Mia!”, Priscilla Queen of the Desert combines big laughs, big heart and even bigger costumes. It’s a glitter-soaked musical extravaganza that delivers both spectacle and soul — and a guaranteed unforgettable night out in Sheffield.
Who is this event for?
This production is ideal for:
Musical theatre fans
Groups of friends and celebratory nights out
Audiences who love high-energy jukebox shows
Anyone looking for bold, joyful things to do in Sheffield
(Suitable for ages 14+)
🎟 Tickets and full event details:
https://www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk/events/priscilla-musical-2026
9:00
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04 July 2026 09:30 11:00
Park Hill Tour - Walk the Streets in the SkyThis event began 04/04/26 and repeats every week on Saturday until 29/08/26
Park Hill has been a visible landmark on the Sheffield skyline for over 60 years. It is considered of international importance due to being the first built example of external access decks (known as Streets in the Sky) and was awarded Grade II* listing in 1998. There followed a regeneration scheme, the first phase being shortlisted for the Stirling prize for architecture in 2013, which continues today. It is also culturally prominent, having featured in film, tv, music, artworks and on stage.
Join a resident-led 90 minute tour to walk the Streets in the Sky. Your guide will take you through the history of Park Hill, exploring the inspirations behind its design as well as its architectural concepts and distinctive details. Along the way, you’ll hear about the people who played a part in its story and gain insight into what life here is like today. There will also be an opportunity to see inside a renovated flat. A spring or summer visit is the perfect time to see our gardens in bloom and to take in the spectacular views over the city and into the countryside beyond.
Visit www.parkhilltours.com for full details and to book your place.
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04 July 2026 09:45 10:45
The Story Shed – A Family Storytelling Show (Crossed Wires Festival)What is The Story Shed?
The Story Shed is a lively, family-friendly storytelling show presented by Crossed Wires, bringing stories, imagination and play to the Playhouse in Sheffield.
Led by Jake, audiences are invited to step inside the Story Shed — creeeaaaak! — where anything can happen and stories spill out in every direction.
What can families expect?
This interactive show is packed with:
Favourite stories from the podcast
Brand-new stories created just for the stage
Interactive moments where children can join in
Games, laughter and plenty of surprises
Designed to keep young audiences engaged, the show balances listening, participation and playful energy throughout.
Why is this show great for children?
The Story Shed encourages imagination, creativity and a love of storytelling in a relaxed, welcoming environment. It’s ideal for children who enjoy being part of the action — whether that’s shouting out ideas, joining in with games, or simply getting swept up in the stories.
Who is this event for?
This event is perfect for:
Children aged 4+
Families and carers
Fans of podcasts and storytelling
Anyone looking for relaxed, creative things to do in Sheffield for children
🎟 Tickets and full event details:
https://www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk/events/crossed-wires-presents-the-story-shed
12:00
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04 July 2026 12:30 14:00
Park Hill Tour - Walk the Streets in the SkyThis event began 04/04/26 and repeats every week on Saturday until 29/08/26
Park Hill has been a visible landmark on the Sheffield skyline for over 60 years. It is considered of international importance due to being the first built example of external access decks (known as Streets in the Sky) and was awarded Grade II* listing in 1998. There followed a regeneration scheme, the first phase being shortlisted for the Stirling prize for architecture in 2013, which continues today. It is also culturally prominent, having featured in film, tv, music, artworks and on stage.
Join a resident-led 90 minute tour to walk the Streets in the Sky. Your guide will take you through the history of Park Hill, exploring the inspirations behind its design as well as its architectural concepts and distinctive details. Along the way, you’ll hear about the people who played a part in its story and gain insight into what life here is like today. There will also be an opportunity to see inside a renovated flat. A spring or summer visit is the perfect time to see our gardens in bloom and to take in the spectacular views over the city and into the countryside beyond.
Visit www.parkhilltours.com for full details and to book your place.
13:00
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04 July 2026 13:00 14:15
If I Speak – Live with Ash Sarkar & Moya Lothian-McLean (Crossed Wires Festival)What is If I Speak?
If I Speak is a live discussion and comedy-inflected talk show presented by Crossed Wires, bringing two of the UK’s sharpest young journalists to the Playhouse in Sheffield.
The show blends political insight with personal reflection, as the hosts unpack modern life, big ideas, and the frustrations many people feel but rarely get the chance to say out loud.
Who is on stage?
The event is hosted by:
Ash Sarkar
Moya Lothian-McLean
Known for their incisive analysis and engaging chemistry, the pair explore where the personal meets the political — with honesty, humour and sharp intelligence.
What will they talk about?
Audiences can expect:
Big theories about politics, culture and society
Honest discussion of modern pressures and contradictions
Reflections on work, identity and public life
An interactive element where audience dilemmas are discussed live
The tone is thoughtful but accessible, balancing serious ideas with wit and relatability.
Why is this event worth seeing?
If I Speak offers something different from a traditional talk or lecture. It’s conversational, responsive to the audience, and rooted in real experiences — making complex political and social ideas feel immediate and human.
Who is this event for?
This event will appeal to:
Podcast and live-talk fans
People interested in politics, media and culture
Audiences who enjoy smart, discussion-led events
Anyone looking for thought-provoking things to do in Sheffield
(Suitable for ages 16+)
🎟 Tickets and full event details:
https://www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk/events/crossed-wires-present-if-i-speak
16:00
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04 July 2026 16:00 20:30
Carlton Club Kids' Easter PartyThis event began 03/04/26 and repeats every day forever
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04 July 2026 16:00 17:15
Northern News – Live with Ian Smith & Amy Gledhill (Crossed Wires Festival)What is Northern News?
Northern News is a live comedy podcast recording presented by Crossed Wires, bringing sharp stand-up, surreal headlines and proudly Northern chaos to the Playhouse in Sheffield.
Hosted by comedians Ian Smith and Amy Gledhill, this special live edition sees the pair bring their hit podcast up north— where it belongs.
Who are the hosts?
Ian Smith is a double Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee and has appeared on Live at the Apollo, Have I Got News For You and The News Quiz.
Amy Gledhill is an Edinburgh Comedy Award winner, known for Last One Laughing UK, Late Night Mash and The Jonathan Ross Show.
Both are Northerners now living in London — and deeply suspicious that they’re missing out on the best local stories back home.
What can audiences expect?
Ian and Amy dive headfirst into the local newspapers of the North to uncover the stories you didn’t know you needed to know, including:
Bizarre local scandals
Glorious small-town drama
Peculiar community legends
News stories that are funny, creepy or just baffling
From competitive gravy wrestling to runaway pigs and inexplicable civic behaviour, Northern News celebrates the wonderfully strange side of life up north.
Why is this show worth seeing?
This is fast, funny, unscripted comedy rooted in real Northern life. The show blends podcast energy with live stand-up timing, making it feel spontaneous, chaotic and sharply observed — especially for audiences who recognise the places and people being discussed.
Who is this event for?
This event will appeal to:
Comedy and podcast fans
Audiences who enjoy topical, absurd humour
People with Northern roots (or curiosity)
Anyone looking for smart, funny things to do in Sheffield
(Suitable for ages 14+)
🎟 Tickets and full event details:
https://www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk/events/crossed-wires-presents-northern-news-with-ian-smith-and-amy-gledhill
19:00
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04 July 2026 19:00 20:00
How to Fail with Elizabeth Day (Crossed Wires Festival)One of the UK’s most popular and influential podcasts comes to Sheffield as part of Crossed Wires Podcast Festival 2026.
Join Elizabeth Day at Sheffield City Hall for a special live edition of How to Fail — an uplifting, funny and deeply moving evening that explores what failure really means, and why it matters.
What to Expect
How to Fail has built a devoted following by challenging traditional ideas of success. In this live show, Elizabeth brings the heart of the podcast to the stage, sharing stories and conversations that celebrate:
Failure as a route to growth
Vulnerability and honesty
Strength, resilience, and self-acceptance
Finding humour and hope in difficult moments
Expect warmth, laughter, reflection, and moments that stay with you long after the show ends.
Part of Crossed Wires Podcast Festival
This live show forms part of Crossed Wires Podcast Festival, which returns to Sheffield with four days of live podcast recordings, special events, and standout voices from across the podcast world.
Whether you’re a long-time listener or discovering How to Fail for the first time, this promises a memorable and affirming night at one of Sheffield’s most iconic venues.
Details/Tickets: https://crossedwires.live/podcast/how-to-fail