MORE than three million people have been reached during Bradford’s year as UK City of Culture, estimates suggest.
After kicking off the year with the magic-packed RISE in City Park, Bradford 2025 is now preparing for its final act at Myrtle Park.
But the months in between that start and end point have seen a rainbow foam party, aerial dancers performing near Shipley Clocktower, unique exhibitions, and so much more.
It’s been the year when sculptures appeared on the moors that inspired Emily Brontë’s Wuthering Heights, film screenings at Ilkley Lido and Thornton Viaduct, and the ultimate crossover - Bassline and classical - took place at the historic St George’s Hall.
Other highlights include the prestigious Turner prize coming to Cartwright Hall, a series of exhibitions at the Loading Bay, and The Railway Children retold by steam train at Oxenhope station.
Darren Henley, chief executive of Arts Council England, said: “Bradford’s year in the spotlight has been a big, bold and brilliant success from start to finish.
“Sparked by the imagination, innovation and creativity of local, national and international artists, Bradford’s magnificent story now continues onwards powered by a new sense of confidence, new creative possibilities and a new understanding of the positive impact of public investment in culture. Without question, Bradford 2025 has changed people’s lives here for the better.”
What do the stats show?
Early estimates from Bradford 2025 show City of Culture events and projects have reached audiences in excess of 3 million.
There’s been more than 5,000 events across all 30 wards in the Bradford district.
More than 650 local artists and organisations were commissioned or involved in the year-long programme.
Over 87,000 individuals were involved in participatory projects and appeared in shows such as the opening event RISE, circus performance Bloom, and Our Patch.
More than 5,500 people benefitted from training, artist development, mentoring and paid work placements.
More than 160 schools and education settings took part in specially created projects such as Sing, Dance, Leap and organised trips to shows and exhibitions
Bradford was visited by King Charles and Queen Camilla and Cartwright Hall Art Gallery’s attendance has doubled over the past 12 months.
Impressions Gallery has also seen visitors double.
When it comes to tourism, there’s reportedly been a significant rise in overnight stays and a 29 per cent increase in journeys between Bradford and London and the Southeast on LNER Services.
Footfall in Bradford city centre is up by more than 25 per cent on previous years, Bradford 2025 said.
In a survey, eight in ten residents said City of Culture had made them feel proud of where they live.
'Ambitious district'
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said “It was such a pleasure to be amongst the millions of people flocking to enjoy Bradford’s year as UK City of Culture. Seeing the stunning renovation of Bradford Live, the local talent at Loading Bay, and the prestigious Turner Prize at Cartwright Hall made me proud to be British.
“It's clear to see Bradford's year as UK City of Culture has massively boosted their community pride, invested in young talent and supported the visitor economy. I am very excited to see how this ambitious district builds on these achievements for the future.”
Council leader praises 'world class programme'
Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe, leader of Bradford Council, said the year has “really surpassed expectation and pushed the boundaries of what is possible”.
The leader added: “We are now poised to make the most of the pride, confidence and opportunities this year has given us, and turn the potential into real growth and better connections.
"I'd like to thank Bradford Culture Company for the world class programme they have delivered, and I'm so pleased that they will now continue to deliver for the district into 2027 and support the wider cultural sector as part of our approach to legacy."
Other highlights of City of Culture include the Bradford Progress, a 36-hour journey by local musicians and Jeremy Deller, Charles Hazlewood and the Paraorchestra; artwork by Bradford-born David Hockney created in drones for the first time; a community cookbook and a curry festival; and celebration of British brass bands.
The newly created pop-up venue Loading Bay has hosted a range of comedy, exhibitions, spoken word and theatre, as well as the world premiere of an immersive experience celebrating British Asian youth culture in the 80s and 90s. Touring venue The Beacon, built especially for the City of Culture year, also travelled to four different parks across the district with a programme created by Bradford residents.
