Duo appointed to lead Bradford UK City of Culture 2025

SHANAZ GULZAR and DAN BATES have been appointed to lead the development and delivery of Bradford’s UK City Culture 2025 programme. 

Gulzar takes on the role of Creative Director. She is an artist, producer, presenter and chaired the winning City of Culture bid team for Bradford 2025. Her responsibilities will include working with local, national and international partners to produce a creative cultural programme that reflects the heritage and character of Bradford.

Gulzar said: “I’ve been on Bradford’s UK City of Culture journey for more than two years, so to be able to develop it and see it through to delivery itself is a fantastic opportunity and a huge honour. 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.”

Bates joins as Executive Director and will lead on the recruitment process of the wider delivery team. 

Bates was formerly Chief Executive of Sheffield Theatres. He has experience in developing programmes for various theatrical institutions including the Theatre Royal in Windsor and West Yorkshire Playhouse in Leeds. 

Bates commented: “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.”

Speaking on their partnership, Gulzar said she is thrilled to be working alongside Bates to bring the ambition of the bid to life.

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