Lawrence Batley Theatre, Huddersfield have been working closely with local South Asian artists to welcome new audiences to experience the magic of the arts.
The West Yorkshire theatre’s Community Ambassadors scheme aims to reflect the diversity found in the region, with a particular focus on welcoming South Asian communities to the theatre.
The scheme was launched two years ago, seeing the theatre work closely with local artists and members of the South Asian community in Kirklees to make a step change in the programme of shows and activities at the theatre and to understand why local people of South Asian heritage were underrepresented in the theatre’s audience, staff and programme.
The Community Ambassadors engage with various community groups, ensuring that underrepresented voices are heard and celebrated. They organise workshops, discussions, and performances at the theatre that highlight different cultural perspectives, playing a crucial role in broadening the theatre’s reach and impact.
The theatres Community Ambassadors are local South Asian artists, they include dance artist Hardeep Sahota, producer and food author Sobia Bashir and theatre maker Madiha Ansari.
Since 2023 the scheme has helped kickstart a number of creative projects, these include South Asian women’s choir Song Geet, Rasm-e-Milan, a multicultural music and dance showcase held in the theatre’s courtyard, Prince Re:imagined, a large-scale Arts Council funded project which reimagined the music of Prince into diverse musical genres, a regular Bhangra Night with Bhangra DJs, Dhol drum players and dancing, alongside a series of Bhangra and Giddah dance classes.
The Community Ambassador scheme now continues to grow. In spring 2025 the theatre presents an Olivier-award nominated drama from South Asian theatre makers on their main stage. 10 Nights, from Phizzical Productions and written by Shahid Iqbal Khan, is the story of one man’s journey of self- discovery as he takes part in itikaf, sleeping and fasting in the mosque for the last ten nights of Ramadan.
They also present Rassam, a free exhibition of photography which explores South Asian traditions curated by Hardeep Sahota and captured by local photographer John Slemensek-Thorne. The theatre is also working closely with the Community Ambassadors on the development of a South Asian Arts Cultural Hub, providing space at the theatre for South Asian artists to develop their creative practice.
Sobia Bashir, Community Ambassador and producer and food author said “Being part of Lawrence Batley Theatre’s Community Ambassador scheme has been deeply fulfilling, empowering me to make a lasting cultural impact while strengthening the bond between the theatre and the diverse communities it serves.”
Madiha Ansari, Community Ambassador and theatre maker said “As a South Asian artist, serving as a community ambassador is a profound honour, allowing me to connect the arts with my community in meaningful ways.
“The role enables us to bring vibrant cultural experiences to those who might not otherwise have access, celebrating a space where diversity is celebrated, and young people and families feel their voices and stories are truly valued. The unwavering support from the dedicated team and the theatre’s exceptional leadership has been instrumental in cultivating an environment where innovation and engagement flourish.
“Its deeply rewarding to help shape an inclusive arts scene that mirrors the rich tapestry of our community. Representation matters, and it’s crucial for young people to see individuals who look like them in influential roles, fostering aspiration and belief in their potential. Lawrence Batley Theatre is committed to enriching lives of people in the local area, making the arts accessible to all.”
Hardeep Sahota, Community Ambassador and dance artist said “Being a Community Ambassador at Lawrence Batley Theatre is such a rewarding experience. It’s a chance to promote diversity, inclusivity, and community engagement and celebrate the arts while nurturing a shared cultural identity, making the theatre a true reflection of Huddersfield’s vibrant community.”
Becky Dash, Chief Executive of Lawrence Batley Theatre said “Lawrence Batley Theatre is the creative heart of Huddersfield, a theatre built by the community for the community where all people are welcome and can find a creative home. Our Community Ambassadors scheme is helping the theatre reflect the people it is serving today.
“We want communities to feel welcome here and to leave inspired, we’re proud that this scheme has made positive changes to our programme, brought different cultures together, given audiences an opportunity to learn something new, make connections and bring people together in a time when it’s much needed. We are excited to continue and expand this work and embed it within the organisation for the future.”
Lawrence Batley Theatre, Huddersfield
Address: Lawrence Batley Theatre, Queen Street, Huddersfield, HD1 2SP
Box Office: 01484 430528
Website: www.thelbt.org
What’s On
10 Nights
Tue 4 – Wed 5 February, 7:30pm
Tickets £16
When Yasser decides to take part in itikaf, sleeping and fasting in the mosque for the last ten nights of Ramadan, he soon regrets his decision. But as he navigates smug worshippers, shared bathrooms, and recurring thoughts of chunky chips, Yasser’s isolation forces him to confront a side of himself he’s been trying to keep hidden. A moving and funny play, 10 Nights is the story of one man’s journey of self-discovery and facing the consequences of your actions.
Rassam
Open Wed – Sat, 10am – 5pm and 90 minutes before show times.
Free entry
An exhibition of photographs curated by Hardeep Sahota and captured by local photographer John Slemensek-Thorne exploring dance, movement, and cultural traditions found within the South Asian diaspora.
Bhangra Night
Regularly throughout the year
Tickets £9
Dance the night away at Lawrence Batley Theatre’s electrifying Bhangra Night! They’ve got DJ Deepsta spinning a mixture of contemporary and classic Bhangra dance floor bangers (with some R’n’B and Hip Hop thrown in too) plus a live Dhol player. This event has a fun and friendly club like atmosphere. It’s the perfect safe space for hitting the dance floor!
Bhangra & Giddah Dance Class
Regularly throughout the year
Tickets £5
Led by inspiring Bhangra specialist Hardeep Sahota these classes are open to all ages and abilities – absolutely no previous experience needed! Hardeep will lead you through classic moves, building short dance routines and introducing you to the rich cultural heritage of the Punjab.
