Bradford Live hosted a special commemorative event last week to celebrate and recognise the achievements of Lee Craven, Kirsten Branston and Christopher Morrell – the masterminds behind the venue’s mighty comeback.  

The event marked the unveiling of a permanent plaque in honour of the trio’s dedication to saving the former Odeon building — bringing this much-loved building back to life as a world-class live music and entertainment venue. 

Frazer Hoyle, said: “It is only fitting that we acknowledge the extraordinary individuals whose collective efforts made this transformation possible. 

“Through their shared architectural vision, unwavering dedication, and profound respect for the heritage of this building, Lee, Kirsten, and Chris have achieved something truly remarkable. Their approach to restoration was not one of replacement, but of reverence. They honoured the fabric of the past while crafting a space ready to embrace the future – a perfect harmony of history and innovation.“

Frazer added: “What we see around us is far more than bricks, seats, and lighting. It is a testament to perseverance, to passion, and to the belief that even the most neglected of places can be reimagined when guided by the right hands and the right hearts. 

“Thanks to their leadership, commitment, and tireless pursuit of excellence, this venue now stands not only as a home for live entertainment, but as a symbol of renewal and cultural pride for Bradford. 

“On behalf of all who will perform here, all who will work here, and all who will be inspired within these walls – we offer our deepest gratitude and enduring admiration.” 

Helen Enright said: “Standing here today, it’s hard to imagine, I think, what this building was like before, and I did see some of the footage. It was quite literally crumbling and just falling into such a state of disrepair that it was set for demolition.”

Helen also talked about the history of the building in relation to this, which was originally erected in 1930s as a super cinema – one of only three outside of London. “One of the others was built in my hometown, in Glasgow,” she said. “It was Green’s Playhouse, very similar, it was a cinema, ballrooms, tearooms – sadly it was demolished, in the 1980s, so it is a remarkable thing that this venue has survived.”

The plaque will be proudly displayed in Bradford Live so that Lee, Kirsten, and Chris’s names are engrained in the building’s history forever. 

The event was attended by representatives from Bradford Council, Bradford UK City of Culture 2025, National Lottery Heritage Fund, and Trafalgar Entertainment, all joining together to celebrate the successful restoration of a building that will play a vital role in Bradford’s future and regeneration.