Introducing Prince Reimagined

We are thrilled to announce a new Arts Council England funded project: Prince Reimagined exploring the impact of the musical and cultural icon Prince.

Prince, known for his incredible musicianship and flamboyant stage presence, influenced generations of musicians, singers and fans. His songbook is one of the most enigmatic and prolific created by any artist; while his celebration of diversity, sexuality and identity has struck a chord with people across the world.

Prince Reimagined aims to review Prince's music in diverse and exciting musical genres, giving new experiences to long-standing fans, and an insight into Prince's music to younger generations who have yet to hear of Prince and may yet take inspiration from his life and work. The project also looks to collect oral histories from people who have been affected by the music and creativity of Prince.

An initial pilot show took place last Sunday in front of an invited audience, which was kindly supported by Kirklees Year of Music, Lawrence Batley Theatre and SAACH (South Asian Arts Cultural Hub). Performed by highly acclaimed live singers and musicians including Maddie Morris, Sunil Kalyan, Vijay Venkat, Anita Collins, Andy Tillison, Abi Swift, and music production from Boff Whalley, Sunil Kalyan and Orlando Gough.

The project team are now looking to recruit more people to take part in a larger scale public event happening this summer. Has Prince had a big effect on you and your life? If yes and you want to share your stories, they want to hear from you. They’re also on the lookout for more musicians and dancers to get involved in the project. If this sounds like you, get in touch with Hardeep Sahota, artist and project leader, to register your interest: prince.reimagined@gmail.com

Becky Atkinson, Chief Executive of Lawrence Batley Theatre said “I am so proud to be working with Hardeep, an amazing local artist, on this exciting project and have the chance to shine a light on the incredible work that is being created in Kirklees. The extraordinary pilot show reminded me that the Lawrence Batley Theatre is a place where the unexpected really does happen everyday. We are so grateful to Arts Council England for funding this incredible project.”

Hardeep Sahota said “I have long-since been a fan of Prince and his music, and have been extremely lucky to have experienced his live shows over the years. This project will celebrate his legacy, take his music to new audiences and to those who have yet to discover his artistry. Becky and the team at Lawrence Batley Theatre have been instrumental in the journey so far. I’m super excited about the project, the musical collaborations that will take shape and then be showcased in the main theatre space in the summer.”