Held by Hope: Rumi Revival 2026 recap
This October, Rumi Revival returned for its fourth UK tour. Held by Hope travelled to five cities over five nights, from 8 to 12 October 2026, and brought the dhikr of the Bosnian dervishes to more of the UK than ever before.
Five cities, five nights
London (The Royal Regency), Birmingham (The Old Rep Theatre), Manchester (RNCM), Leicester (Athena) and, for the first time, Bradford (St George’s Hall). Each evening brought together Qur’an recitation, reflections on Rumi’s Masnavi, nasheeds, the dhikr of the dervishes from Bosnia and the turning of the sema.
A theme for our times
Every Rumi Revival tour has its own theme. After Longing for Love, Return to Reliance and Rise from Redemption, this year’s theme was hope: the reminder, found throughout Rumi’s poetry and the Qur’an, never to despair of the mercy of Allah.
What you told us
Watching the Whirling Dervish in their deep meditative state was something I will remember forever.
Jane, Manchester
Serenity and deep touch. I was shaken to my core. It definitely pulled me to a deeper and holier reality.
Husameddin, Leicester
It felt as though I had travelled back in time to the era of Mevlana Rumi himself.
Hannah, London
Sometimes all you need is the heart to connect. We may not understand the words spoken but the hearts connect you to Allah.
Nusheen, Birmingham
I’ve not attended an event like this before! It was truly enthralling. I hope the team decide to tour every year!
Hafsah, Manchester
We read every piece of feedback, including your thoughts on venues, timings and how we talk about our charity work, and we’re already using it to plan next year.
Thank you
To everyone who came, to our performers who travelled from Bosnia, to the volunteers, stall holders and venue teams: thank you. Every Rumi Revival supports the humanitarian work of our charity partner, Revive (registered charity no. 1187831).
What’s next?
Rumi Revival 2027 dates and cities will be announced to our mailing list first. Be the first to know.
Can’t wait until then? Travel with us to the lodges of the Bosnian dervishes in March 2027 on Wayfarers: Bosnia.