Duo appointed to deliver Bradford’s UK City of Culture 2025 programme

Two cultural figures have been appointed to lead the delivery of Bradford’s UK City of Culture 2025 programme, marking an important milestone in the year-long cultural celebrations.

Shanaz Gulzar, an acclaimed artist, producer, presenter and former chair of Bradford 2025 – who played an instrumental role in the district’s winning bid campaign – has been made creative director.

She will work with local, national and international partners to produce an ambitious programme of work rooted in the heritage and character of Bradford district.

Gulzar said: “I’m of Bradford, a Keighley lass, and having been part of the cultural community here for over 25 years, I know the passion and potential of the brilliant artists and creative communities in the district.

“Our winning bid was shaped by thousands of conversations with our many, diverse communities and our extraordinary young population across the district.

“We’re ready to write a new narrative for the next chapter of Bradford’s story. I can’t wait to get started.”

Dan Bates will take up the role of executive director of Bradford 2025, joining Bradford Culture Company – the charitable organisation delivering Bradford 2025 – from his current role as chief executive of Sheffield Theatres.

Bates, who trained as a stage manager at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, will draw on his expertise developing world-class programmes for a number of major cultural institutions.

He said: “I have had the most amazing 13 years at Sheffield Theatres and I’m incredibly proud to have helped nurture and showcase South Yorkshire talent across the city.

“When I heard that Bradford had won the title of UK City of Culture 2025, I was so excited for what an opportunity a year of culture can bring to the district and its people.

“I am even more so now to deliver this for the district, alongside working with Shanaz and can’t wait to get to work.”

Bradford district was named UK City of Culture 2025 in May. The district received £275,000 in initial seed funding from the Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, paving the way for a year of cultural activities and events.

It is estimated the title could bring an extra £700m into Bradford district, creating 3,000 jobs and attracting around 1.1m visitors by 2030.

Councillor Susan Hinchcliffe, leader of Bradford Council, said: “Shanaz and Dan are going to be a great team to lead on the delivery of Bradford’s UK City of Culture programme.

“We look forward to working with and supporting them to deliver a transformational year of culture that will also generate many opportunities in employment, inward investment and enhanced skills for people.

“Shanaz was chair of the winning City of Culture bid team and as a Keighley lass has already done us proud. She also brings phenomenal knowledge of the best upcoming national and international talent.

“This, combined with Dan’s track record and expertise in leading artistic teams to develop acclaimed new work, working with partners and stakeholders, national and international touring, will enable Bradford to deliver an excellent year of culture which the country can be proud of.”

Kersten England, chief executive of Bradford Council, added: “Shanaz Gulzar and Dan Bates will drive Bradford’s UK City of Culture in 2025 with flair, passion and compassion for the place.

“We have a unique opportunity here to build on what other cities of cultures have delivered and show the UK the potential and abundance of talent a place like Bradford district has.”