LGBT History Month is almost over and once again it has been wonderful to see the events taking place to recognise and celebrate it. 

It is my eternal hope that events like these not only provide opportunities for connection in the here and now, but also inspire people to investigate all the things that have come before them and have also shaped both the world they live in and the people they have become and will continue growing to be. It seems so true that to understand where you need to go and what you need to do, knowing where you have come from is important.

imagine if theatre company is offering an incredible, accessible opportunity for female identifying working-class writers over 18.

Writers’ Toolbox 2 is a six-month paid programme, starting in April in Leeds. The focus will be on writing for stage and screen and supporting women to begin working on a new piece of writing as well as giving them the tools to secure funding to produce their own work.  We want to support writers of all levels of experience, who have distinctive voices and incredible stories to tell.

Marking 25 years on Otley Market Square this year, Otley Farmers Market, which takes place in Otley Market Square, is to run on the second and the last Sunday of the month,  celebrating the best of local and speciality producers and makers.

The market, which started in 2000 offering space to local and specialist producers, makers and traders, also offers support to various local community initiatives by regular donations and giving free space for fundraising and awareness.

Corinne Bailey Rae’s appointment brings a fresh, cross-disciplinary perspective to the leading dance training institution, which has long been a beacon of creativity and artistic excellence. While Corinne’s background is rooted in music rather than dance, her deep appreciation for the arts in all forms makes her the perfect fit to support the work of NSCD.

Unity Leeds is a newly established Community Interest Company (CIC) that has emerged from the legacy of Unity Day. 

Since 1996, Unity Day has been a staple event in the Hyde Park and LS6 area, created as a response to negative media portrayals of the community in 1995. Its purpose was simple yet powerful: to bring people together in celebration of the area’s diversity, creativity, and resilience. Over the years, it grew into a much-loved event, but as times changed, so too did the needs of the community.

In the vibrant cities and towns of northern England, creativity thrives. From musicians to filmmakers, designers to writers, this region boasts an incredible wealth of talent. Recognising the need to bring these creatives together, The Creative Meet Up was born — a networking event designed to foster collaboration, share stories, and spark inspiration.

Leeds Playhouse Youth Theatre's 2025 Spring Term is now on sale!

Secure a spot for someone you know now and let them be part of weekly drama sesions led by outstanding professional artists and directors. 

Sign up for the next term by Mon 6 Jan. 

Please note, places are limited and will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. 

Leeds Jazz Festival is set to return for its fourth edition from May 22 to May 27, 2025. The vibrant celebration of jazz will once again bring together a diverse lineup of talented artists, showcasing everything from contemporary to traditional jazz across multiple venues throughout the city. 

The National Poetry Centre is asking people to send in collage poems made from words taken from magazines and newspapers.

The poems must be created from recyclable materials and follows the NPC’s successful Rubbish Words event, which saw hundreds of people inspired to make poems using words cut out of items such as posters and theatre play bills.

Rubbish Words took place on 18-20 October at Leeds Corn Exchange.

Mark your calendars! The festival returns for its third year on Monday 18 November 2024. This year, we're moving to a brand new location – the amazing and culturally rich Royal Armouries in Leeds. Get ready for a fresh experience filled with inspiration and discovery!