Bradford Arts Centre: A New Creative Hub – Article

Bradford Arts Centre Exterior. Image Credit: Andrew De Pledge.

On Wednesday 8th October, the former Kala Sangam officially reopened as the newly refurbished Bradford Arts Centre. Following a £7.9 million capital redevelopment, the Grade II-listed building relaunches with a new name and upgraded facilities. But its commitment to inclusivity, creativity, and community remains unchanged. We got an exclusive first look inside Bradford Arts Centre and spoke with staff bringing this ambitious vision to life.

Bradford Arts Centre now boasts a 170-seat theatre, five purpose-built rehearsal studios, dedicated space for BCB Radio, and relaxed social hubs throughout the building. Studios and tickets are both just £1 per day, removing barriers to participation.

CEO Alex Croft explained how the centre aims to support creative ideas, regardless of background. “We help you shape that creative idea and get funding for it. Then you can use our studios to create it, put it on our stage, and hopefully take it and tour.”

Bradford Arts Centre Theatre Interior. Image Credit: Karol Wyszynski.

Actress Natalie Davies, premiering her new play ‘Bring it Back’ from 23- 25 October, praised the centre’s support throughout her creative process. “They backed all my Arts Council applications, gave me rehearsal space, and supported me throughout the process of creating a very experimental show.” Gianluca Vincentini, co-director of Mobius Dance, shared how the centre offers more than just physical support. Their new show, ‘The Long Summer Day’, “is a celebration of of LGBTQ+ experiences. We’re here, we’re existing, and we’re not apologising for that. Bradford Arts Centre provides a safe space where we can tell those stories without feeling threatened.”

But these high-quality spaces aren’t just for professionals. The centre welcomes all ages, backgrounds and expertise. “We have young children coming in for Kathak dance classes on Saturdays, Dohl drumming workshops, and next week school groups will be using all three studios,” says Alex. “This is, above all, a creative space for everyone.”

The Long Summer Day. Mobius Dance. Image Credit: Nicole Guarino Photography59.

Improving access was the driving force behind the redevelopment. For the first time, there’s lift access to all floors, step-free entrances, accessible toilets, and a Changing Places facility. “People wanted to access the space but couldn’t,” Alex explains. “Now, you can take yourself to any part of the building.”

He recalls a powerful moment when builders knocked through the central staircase. “I’m not a particularly emotional man, but when I saw the view from the bottom floor all the way to the top, I burst into tears. Seeing the building open up and connect is what this whole project is about.”  

Bradford Arts Centre new Chair (right) Shagufta Bibi and Trustee Deepak Sharma. Image Credit: Bradford Arts Centre.

The redevelopment was funded by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (via Arts Council England’s Cultural Development Fund), the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Garfield Weston Foundation, Foyle Foundation, and Bradford Council. Ongoing conversations with local communities, artists, and partners helped shape every stage of the project. Alex explains: “DCMS funding is this fantastic pot of capital money that also comes with revenue support.” That revenue funded a two-year community engagement project, embedding the team in local communities. At every stage the team asked people how they wanted their arts centre to look and feel, “down to what colour we should paint things.”

Local artists have also left their lasting mark. Razwan Ul-Haq created ‘Bradford Symphony No. 8’, a calligraphy piece using tinctures made from the building’s own bricks. Rosie Freeman and Marf Keane developed a soundscape from 30 years of archive material. While college student Eve Wright designed a sculpture. Additional artworks from the Arts & Heritage Community Project, created with the u3a and Womenzone groups, are displayed throughout. “In terms of making people feel welcome and at home,” Alex says, “they’re literally going to see themselves on the walls of this space.” 

Sangam Lounge Bradford Arts Centre. Image Credit: Karol Wyszynski.

Bradford Arts Centre’s next challenge is securing sustainable funding to keep the space affordable. One solution is hiring out its high-quality commercial spaces, including four meeting rooms, conference venues, and offices. “Not only are you getting a great professional environment and great service,” Alex notes, “but you’re also supporting artists, It’s a magical collaboration.” 

The centre is kicking off with a packed autumn season. Seventeen events, six premieres, four full-building takeovers, and five City of Culture support programmes. The first show to open the new space is ‘ASTITVA’ by Jaivant Patel Company, on Thursday 9 October. “It’s a special moment,” says Alex, “as it will be the first piece welcoming people” This weekend (11–12 October), the Bradford South Asian Festival takes over the building with music, food, workshops, storytelling and immersive experiences, all inspired by the vibrant traditions of South Asian weddings.

Reception Desk Bradford Arts Centre. Image Credit: Karol Wyszynski.

As Bradford’s year as UK City of Culture draws to a close, Alex is focused on the future: “My hope is that this space carries on the legacy. All those young people inspired by City of Culture, whether they want to be audience members or pursue a creative career, we want to be the space they come to.” 

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Bradford Arts Centre is now open. To explore their programme, learn more about the space, or book tickets, visit bdartscentre.co.uk.