Community Ambassadors share their theatre journeys
2025 January 17Lawrence Batley Theatre strives to be 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.
We know that we have work to do to make sure that the theatre is relevant and inclusive to everyone in our town.
Two years ago we launched our Community Ambassadors scheme, working 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 our audience, staff and programme.
Over the course of those two years we have undertaken research, listened and learned and continue to strive to change and adapt so that we can truly be a welcoming space for everyone and change perceptions of what theatre is and the positive impact it can have on people’s lives.
We wanted to share testimonials from three of our Community Ambassadors, Hardeep Sahota, Sobia Bashir and Madiha Ansari talking about their journeys so far with the theatre.
Sobia Bashir (Producer and Food Author)
"Nearly two years ago, I embarked on an exciting journey with the Lawrence Batley Theatre in Huddersfield as a Community Ambassador, driven by my passion for bringing South Asian music and culture to life. As the Choir Lead of Song Geet, a South Asian women’s choir, our collaboration with Lawrence Batley Theatre opened up incredible opportunities. They generously provided us with rehearsal space and helped us connect with the wider community, both promoting our choir and strengthening the theatre’s outreach. This partnership became a pivotal moment, allowing us to grow and thrive.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my role has been leading singing workshops across Kirklees for adults and children, immersing them in South Asian songs and traditions. Thanks to Lawrence Batley Theatre’s support and their assistance in securing a grant, we were able to expand these workshops, sharing the richness of our culture while cultivating a growing choir. The culmination of this effort was the vibrant Rasm-e-Milan performance in the summer of 2023, where our workshop participants took to the stage, celebrating a journey of music, heritage, and community. This collaboration with the theatre 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."
Hardeep Sahota (Artist/Creative Practitioner)
"As a local creative practitioner, I have had the incredible opportunity to work with Lawrence Batley Theatre over the last decade in a variety of ways. Firstly, as an artist showcasing a venue-wide exhibition that came from my research into Bhangra. Then, as a dancer, I was able to refine and record the world’s first visual dictionary of Bhangra moves.
It has now been two years since being invited to formalise my relationship with the theatre by becoming a Community Ambassador. In this role one is tasked with promoting inclusivity and diversity within the arts across Kirklees. This role involves engaging with various community groups, ensuring that underrepresented voices are heard and celebrated. By organising workshops, discussions, and performances that highlight different cultural perspectives, ambassadors play a crucial role in broadening the theatre’s reach and impact.
Prince Re:Imagined did just that, a large-scale Arts Council funded project which showcased Prince's songs played live by incredible musicians who reimagined them into diverse and exciting musical genres. Punctuated through the show were moments of fans tales of their connection and memories of Prince, how he touched them in their lives. The evening was a genuine homage to the legendary musician.
I firmly believe that The Lawrence Batley Theatre is not just a venue for performances; it’s a vibrant hub for cultural exchange and community engagement. Serving as a cultural ambassador at the theatre offers a unique opportunity to connect diverse audiences within the arts, fostering a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of cultures that make up our society.
"The theatre itself turned 30 last year and is a historic landmark, and its commitment to community involvement is evident in its programming. As an ambassador, one can curate events that resonate with the local population, drawing on Huddersfield’s rich cultural heritage. Collaborating with local artists and cultural organisations allows for the creation of innovative projects that reflect the community’s identity and experiences.
Moreover, Community Ambassadors help bridge the gap between the theatre and the community, encouraging attendance and participation from all walks of life. By facilitating conversations about the importance of the arts in everyday life, they inspire a new generation of theatre-goers and creators.
My most recent project Rassam has seen further dance workshops, oral history interviews, recordings of soundscapes and a new exhibition currently on show at Lawrence Batley Theatre. This in-turn has given rise to new opportunities such as a Bhangra Night taking place around Diwali, the festival of light and a Pecha-Kucha event bringing local photographers together to share their creative journeys.
In summary, being a Community Ambassador at Lawrence Batley Theatre is a rewarding experience that helps promote diversity, inclusivity, and community engagement. It’s a chance to celebrate the arts while nurturing a shared cultural identity, making the theatre a true reflection of Huddersfield’s vibrant community."
Madiha Ansari (Theatre maker and Facilitator)
“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.”
We have lots of projects lined up to continue this work including regular classes, events and world class performances from South Asian artists. This season we are bringing an Olivier-award nominated drama from South Asian theatre makers to our main stage. 10 Nights, from Phizzical and written by Shahid Iqbal Khan, is the story of one man’s journey of self- discovery and facing the consequences of your actions which is performed in English with some Urdu and Arabic references.
We are also working on the development of a South Asian Arts Cultural Hub alongside the Community Ambassadors, watch this space for further exciting plans in 2025.