THOUSANDS of tickets have already been sold for the opening event of Bradford’s UK City of Culture year.
2025 is set to kick off with a special show created by world-famous Bradford-born magician Steven Frayne, formerly known as Dynamo, who has collaborated alongside award-winning theatre director Kirsty Housley for a special show.
Taking place over two nights – Friday, January 10, and Saturday, January 11 – RISE will transform City Park and Centenary Square.
A ‘great way to mark the start of Bradford’s time as UK City of Culture’
More than 7,000 tickets have so far been purchased for the “astonishing show with local people at its heart” which will explore the themes of heritage, people, place, and magic found in unexpected places.
Shanaz Gulzar, creative director of Bradford 2025, believes the event will be a great way to start the year.
She said: “We’re delighted that more than 7,000 people have already got their tickets for our opening event, and we want more to join us for this true celebration of everything that makes our city and district special!
“RISE will be an astonishing show with local people, voices and stories at its heart – a great way to mark the start of Bradford’s time as UK City of Culture.”
Bradford 2025 added: “Heralding the official start of Bradford’s year as UK City of Culture, RISE is an open-air spectacular that celebrates the district, people and communities who make Bradford magic.
“Gates open at 5pm, with a wide range of food and drink traders on-site in Centenary Square and music from live DJs ahead of the main celebration at 6.30pm.
“The event is suitable for all ages and promises to be an evening for all Bradfordians to remember, showcasing the Bradford district’s incredible spirit as a dynamic, forward-looking region of change.”
There will be plenty more to enjoy throughout the year as part of Bradford 2025 celebrations.
Speaking earlier this year, Shanaz said: “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to celebrate our extraordinary cultural heritage, and for our young population to become leaders and changemakers, starting a new chapter in our story.”
Tickets for the launch event are priced at £2, with free tickets for under-16s, senior citizens, and 16-25-year-old Youth Pass members.
How to buy tickets for the launch event
Tickets can be booked via the Bradford 2025 website, by calling the ticketing team, or in person at the Ticket + Info Hub in Centenary Square.
Online: bradford2025.co.uk (24 hours)
Phone: 01274 053100 (available 12-4pm, Monday to Friday)
In-person: 12-2pm, Monday to Friday
