BD Festival, the highly anticipated annual event, is back with a captivating programme that includes five world premieres and over 20 extraordinary experiences from local, national, and international artists. Taking place over the weekend of Friday, July 28, and Saturday, July 29, the free festival will span three locations in Bradford city centre, making it the perfect start to the school summer holidays.
BD Festival promises an array of uplifting dance performances, playful street theatre, live music, immersive art installations, interactive exhibitions, and breathtaking circus acts, ensuring there is something for families and children of all ages. Produced by Bradford Council, the festival showcases a diverse line-up of artists from across the UK and Europe, as well as performances from 14 local organisations and artists. It aims to provide inclusive and welcoming spaces for all, aligning with the district’s journey towards becoming the UK City of Culture 2025.
One of the highlights of the two-day extravaganza is the world premiere of “Cricket Green” by Bradford’s very own Balbir Singh Dance Company. This awe-inspiring live show combines music, theatre, and dance, fusing classical Indian and contemporary Western dance styles to narrate the story of Team Earth versus Team Climate in a surreal game of cricket.
Another highly anticipated performance is “Ancient Futures” presented by Unlimited Theatre and Upswing. This Afrofuturism-inspired outdoor spectacle seamlessly blends circus and storytelling with Sound System culture and West African folklore.
Throughout the weekend, BD Festival will feature a strong Bradford presence. Mind the Gap, England’s leading learning disability performance and live arts company, will stage “Birdie,” an intricate performance that powerfully tells the story of climate change. Additionally, Dr Alam from the University of Bradford’s School of Social Sciences will present “Car Stories,” an interactive research piece exploring class, identity, race, and their connections to a shared cultural narrative through the district’s mutual love for cars.
Visitors can also enjoy the immersive experience of “Eating Kirkgate Market” at the Edible Archives pop-up studio in Kirkgate Market. This multi-sensory journey celebrates the market’s unique murals and 70s architecture through ice cream and sound.
Councillor Ferriby, Executive Member for Healthy People and Places at Bradford Council expressed excitement about the festival, stating, “BD Festival is a great example of our ambitions, our energy, and our dedication to bringing world-class cultural experiences to the people of Bradford district and beyond, while also showcasing our identity and capabilities to the world.”
Last year’s BD Festival drew families from every corner of the district and beyond, and this year promises to be just as vibrant and enjoyable. The festival invites everyone to the city centre for this two-day event.
For more information about BD Festival, visit www.visitbradford.com/bdfestival.
