Black Country Touring (BCT) is seeking an inspiring and visionary Artistic Director to lead the Arts Council England National Portfolio organisation into its next chapter.

This is a rare opportunity to shape the cultural landscape of the Black Country, building on BCT’s reputation for bold, inclusive, and community-driven theatre, dance, and film.

After 28 years of visionary leadership, Frances Land and Steve Johnstone, Co-Artistic Directors of Black Country Touring (BCT), have decided to step down during Autumn 2025 following a transitional handover. Their dedication to quality, diversity, and the communities of the Black Country has been integral in growing BCT’s reach and reputation.

We’re excited to announce that Smethwick Puppetry Festival is back in 2025, and it’s going to be even bigger and better than last year!

We are thrilled to announce that our new production, ‘Wild’, will be touring nationally in Autumn 2025. This captivating show weaves together stories from over 70 people to explore what ‘Wild’ means to us - in the natural world, in our towns and cities, and within ourselves.

The Autumn 2024 tour of ‘Wild’ is over - and what a brillant tour it’s been!

Wild begins its tour across the Black Country today. Our first show is tonight at 7:30pm at Brierley Hill Civic Hall.

Black Country Touring worked together with Bearwood Community Hub, Borough of Sanctuary Sandwell, The Space and poet Bohdan Piasecki to create four short films that challenge the negative narrative around migration and foster empathy by sharing authentic stories from local sanctuary seekers who have built new lives in Sandwell.

The results are four short films and four beautiful poems.

Meet our creative team for our new production, Wild!

We are thrilled to announce our new theatre production, 'Wild'!