A new documentary gives viewers an inside look at RISE, the event kicking off Bradford’s stint as UK City of Culture 2025.
- Award-winning director Kirsty Housley collaborates with Steven Frayne, formerly known as Dynamo, to bring RISE to life.
- Local talents including acrobats, singers, poets, and a young magician are featured in this cultural celebration.
- The BBC will air a half-hour film produced by Candour Productions, showcasing the diverse talent of Bradford locals.
- Additional BBC programming supports the cultural events, aiming to highlight Bradford’s artistic and historical contributions.
A fresh documentary offers audiences a glimpse into RISE, the landmark event inaugurating Bradford as the UK City of Culture 2025. This behind-the-scenes film spotlights a variety of local talents and their stories, highlighting the cultural richness of Bradford.
Under the guidance of acclaimed theatre director Kirsty Housley and Steven Frayne – the magician Dynamo – RISE is brought to fruition. The collaboration between these creators ensures that the event is both artistically innovative and rooted in Bradford’s unique cultural landscape.
The documentary includes performances by Bradford’s own amateur acrobats, singers, poets, and a young magician, capturing the essence of the city’s vibrant arts scene. The involvement of local participants emphasizes Bradford’s commitment to showcasing its homegrown talent.
Produced by Candour Productions, the half-hour special will be broadcast on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, reaching audiences nationwide. Through this film, viewers are invited to engage with the stories and performances of Bradford’s citizens, providing a platform for local artists to shine on a national stage.
The BBC’s dedication to Bradford 2025 extends beyond this single documentary. With initiatives like ‘The Big Tasty Read’, a campaign promoting the joy of reading through a curated booklist, the broadcaster aims to foster a deeper appreciation for cultural narratives. This initiative, along with others, is designed to support Bradford’s cultural activities throughout the year.
The documentary and supporting initiatives underscore the dynamic cultural landscape of Bradford, making 2025 a memorable year.