Poets, Strutters and Paper-Folders Wanted: IF: Festival Is Back

From performance poetry to paper doves, here’s how to take part in this summer’s cultural celebration

Milton Keynes is set to buzz with creative energy once again as IF: Milton Keynes International Festival 2025 returns with a packed programme of events – and this year, the spotlight is on you.

Whether you fancy strutting a catwalk in your favourite outfit, reciting poetry on stage, or folding paper doves for a peace-inspired installation, the Festival is calling on residents of all ages to take part in its most interactive edition yet.

Festival Creative Producer Rae Lee said: “This year’s Festival is all about connection – with each other and with the world around us. From self-expression through fashion to ideas that challenge and inspire, we’re inviting the community to bring their creativity and individuality to the fore.”

Here are some of the ways you can get involved:

Who’s In Your Wardrobe?

Community catwalk with Zwermers – Saturday 19 July at Unity Place

Dutch theatre company Zwermers are inviting locals to join a series of workshops exploring identity through what we wear. Culminating in two live performances of Pan~//Catwalk, participants will step onto the runway at Unity Place to share the stories their clothes tell.

A playful, thoughtful project that delves into how others perceive us – and how we perceive ourselves.

Sign up here: ifmiltonkeynes.org/pan-catwalk-community-participation

Calling Young Poets

Perform at “Utopia in Verse” – Thursday 24 July at Festival Central, Campbell Park

Are you a young poet with something to say? The Festival is offering one aspiring writer from Milton Keynes the opportunity to perform alongside acclaimed poet and BBC Slam Champion Maureen Onwunali at a one-night-only poetry event.

A unique platform for local talent to shine.

More details and entry: ifmiltonkeynes.org/calling-out-to-all-young-milton-keynes-poets

Join the Cabaret of Ideas

Saturday 26 July – venue TBA

Do you have a passion, theory or idea worth sharing? Whether you’re a kitchen table philosopher or a professional innovator, this intimate event welcomes voices from all walks of life. Expect curious minds, big questions, and lively discussion.

Think TED Talk meets local club night – but with softer lighting and more personality.

Express interest: ifmiltonkeynes.org/be-part-of-cabaret-of-ideas

Paper Dove Workshops

3–27 July, 11am–3pm daily – Middleton Hall, centre:mk

Inspired by artist Michael Pendry’s moving installation Les Colombes (The White Doves), families and individuals are invited to craft paper doves that will join hundreds of others in a soaring display inside centre:mk.

Free to attend and suitable for all ages.

Find out more: ifmiltonkeynes.org/paper-dovemaking-at-if2025

Whether you’re stepping up to the mic, gliding down a runway or folding a feathered friend, this year’s IF: Milton Keynes International Festival is all about making space for everyone’s voice. Be part of something remarkable this summer.

For the full programme and latest updates, visit ifmiltonkeynes.org