A MAN who was part of a group to save the former Odeon building in Bradford from demolition says it is a dream come true to see it transformed into a music venue as work continues apace.
Bradford Live is due to open in 2024 in a major transformation of the iconic 1930s building.
The eye-catching structure, which has been a cinema and theatre in the past, has been empty for more than two decades but the Bradford Live project will see the building turned into a 3,800-capacity live music venue.
Part of one side of the building has been revealed over the last few weeks, as scaffolding and large coverings have been removed from the structure.
The ambitious project was originally expected to open late last year, but extra work was uncovered as the renovation got underway, meaning any opening date was pushed back to this autumn.
But it is expected to open next year, after the renovated building is handed over to the NEC Group for fit out in spring 2024.
Opening in 1930 as the New Victoria, the building then became The Gaumont in 1950, followed by an Odeon cinema and Top Rank bingo club, before closing in 2000.
The new use for the historic building, as a touring venue for top entertainers, has been hailed by someone with a keen eye on its heritage.
Writer Mark Nicholson, who has a long history with the 1930s structure, wrote a look on the history of the building ‘The People’s Palace: The Story of the New Vic.
Mr Nicholson, who was a member of the Bradford Odeon Rescue Group between 2005 and 2014, which campaigning to re-open the historic site, says it is wonderful that the building is going to be used as an entertainment venue. He is also Bradford Live’s historian.
He said: “It’s a dream come true really. It’s great to see it slowly evolve back into a concert venue.
“It’s what the public wanted. It’s wonderful. It’s the ultimate survivor, that building.
“It’s very, very attractive to touring bands and artists. It’s something a bit special, rather than playing an arena warehouse building. We don’t really have anything like it (Bradford Live) in West Yorkshire.
“Bradford is very, very lucky to have it. It’s wonderful and a sense of vindication for all of the hard work that we put into it.”
Mr Nicholson added that the opening of the music venue will be a huge boost and ‘absolutely brilliant’ for Bradford. He says it will also help create happy memories for generations of Bradfordians as they watch shows at the site.
He said: “It’s been a massive, massive job. It was neglected for a lot of years.
“It’s going to be worth the wait and absolutely brilliant for Bradford.
“The building has always created memories for people. It’s very exciting that that building will create more memories as the next few decades roll on.
“People will see their first concert at Bradford Live. Knowing that it’s the same building that my parents talk about.”
Meanwhile, Telegraph & Argus asked readers on Facebook which acts they would like to see perform at Bradford Live when it opens.
One person posted: “It would be nice to see Paul McCartney do a show to get things kicked off to a good start. I will be the first to get a ticket.”
Other artists people suggested to play at Bradford Live included The Rolling Stones, Beyonce, Metallica and Ed Sheeran.
One person suggested another event Bradford Live could host – World Wrestling Entertainment’s (WWE’s) biggest annual show – WrestleMania.
Bradford Live has previously revealed that digital installation company ADI will install an LED platform at the front of the venue.
The 32-metre-wide digital display will be located between the venue’s two main entrances.
The huge screen will also be used to advertise its upcoming concerts and events to passers-by in Bradford city centre.
The screen will also have the ability to show full-motion video and is billed as being able to provide the perfect backdrop for any events held in the public space.
Bradford Live has a long-term lease from the building owner, Bradford Council, and has an agreement in place to sublease it to the NEC Group as operator in what is a 30-year deal.
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