His Majesty King Charles and Her Majesty Queen Camilla paid a visit to Bradford Live last Thursday to meet performers and creatives involved in Bradford 2025 to celebrate the region’s year as UK City of Culture. During their visit, The King and Queen unveiled a commemorative plaque in Bradford Live’s magnificent Ballroom to officially mark the very special occasion.

Dame Rosemary Squire, Joint CEO Trafalgar Entertainment, said: “It was a great honour to welcome the King and Queen to Bradford Live today as part of Bradford’s year as UK City of Culture. The venue has been lovingly restored, redeveloped and reimagined and stands as a symbol of Bradford’s creativity, ambition, and cultural pride.

“Rescuing this building which at one time was at risk of dereliction – is a testament to the vision, resilience and perseverance of colleagues at Bradford Council and at Bradford Live. It has been sympathetically restored for the benefit of future generations.”

Helen Enright, CEO Trafalgar Venues, added: “In a few months’ time, Bradford Live will reopen for its first performances – creating new stories, shared experiences and unforgettable moments – as, indeed, it did in the past. Our ambition – as the operator – is for this venue to inspire audiences for years to come bringing the joy of live performance and attracting new audiences within and beyond this wonderful city.   

“Bradford 2025 is a celebration of the people, places, and ideas that make this city so vibrant. Today reflects that spirit, and we are thrilled to be involved during this important moment for the city.”

And here are some snaps of the Trafalgar team on the day as the excitement was building!

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CAPTION COMPETITION!

We’re looking for the BEST and FUNNIEST captions for this photo of Their Majesties at Bradford Live!
Email your entry to David Bradbury by 1 June.

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AND THE WAIT IS OVER!

Some of the biggest names in comedy, music and live entertainment are set to appear at Bradford’s £50 million refurbished live entertainment venue, BRADFORD LIVE – the beating heart of Bradford. THE WAIT IS OVER! The first shows have now been announced, with more acts to be revealed over the coming weeks. 

Howard said: “We wanted to open our brand-new venue Bradford Live with a bang and what better way to celebrate the occasion than with some of the biggest headline names in comedy, music, variety, and family entertainment. The wait is finally over, and the good times are coming. There really is something special for everyone.”  

He added: “We’re delighted to be working with Bradford Council and Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture on building a world-class legacy, which will bring cultural and economic vigour to the city. We’ve assembled the kind of opening season that this magnificent venue and Bradfordians deserve. And there’s more to come with further artists being announced over the coming weeks. Bradford Live isn’t just a great venue for Bradford, it’s one for the whole of the UK, and it will be up there with the best of the best.” 

The incredible line-up, featuring some of the biggest names in comedy, music and live entertainment, includes: Bradley Walsh, Brian Conley, Shane Richie & Joe Pasquale (The Prat Pack); Bill Bailey; Rob Brydon; Ed Gamble; Phil Wang; Jo Whiley; Diversity; Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance; Slava’s Snowshow, and Elf the Musical.