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MAC Leeds - Art & Entertainment
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If you read any of the big British papers you'll know that, all of a sudden, Leeds is the nation's new place to be and be seen. Over the past few years, Leeds has been changing. The canal-side and railway bridges, that for years had been reminders of Leeds' fallen industrial past, have been revamped and now form a chic industrial backdrop for Leeds' new cultural center—the Exchange Quarter. Leeds is changing and growing with enthusiasm. It has the feeling of a place where things happen. This guide will make sure you know where to get in on the action.

Art

Leeds has never been known for its art - except perhaps Henry Moore. Over the past few years, as Leeds has been expanding, art has been overshadowed, while Leeds' businesses and nightlife have taken the limelight. But now, Leeds artists are now beginning to get noticed. The Leeds 13 - a group of art students from the university - managed to get on national news a couple of years ago for staging a scam during their finals and since then degree shows have enjoyed a raised profile. Between May and June, you can visit final degree shows from students from The Metropolitan University, The College of Art and Design and The University of Leeds. The rest of the year you can visit one of Leeds' galleries: The Henry Moore Institute, City Art Gallery and the Yorkshire Sculpture Park (near Wakefield), all well-established art centres that are open all year round. There are also occasional shows by local and touring artists: East Street Studios have a reputation for their exhibitions and their recent F.K.A.A. (Formally Known as Art), was a great success.

Clubbing

At the weekend, people come from all over the country to go out and get down at Leeds' best clubs. Majestyk is the biggest and most popular. It's great if you're with a big crowd. Nights change all the time, but here are some pretty sure fire Saturday night hits: Speed Queen at the Warehouse on Saturday is a speed garage night with a kitsch twist; The Orbit at After Dark in Morley is one of the best industrial techno nights in the country - hardcore and banging if that's your thing; Basics at Mint is a renowned house night in a stylish venue; and you can be sure that whatever is on at The Wardrobe; The Underground; or The Atrium will keep you grooving all night long.

Theatre, Opera and Dance

Leeds has a small theatre scene but what it does have is good. The West Yorkshire Playhouse is one of Leeds' greatest modern institutions. They have recently started their own small theatre company who produce most of the plays that are shown here. They show contemporary productions and popular modern and traditional plays with a new twist; including Shakespeare and Oscar Wilde. The Grand Theatre is the only place in Leeds to see opera and the reputable Northern Ballet Company performs here too. There are some smaller theatres that show contemporary plays, dance, music and host touring companies. Try the Leeds Metropolitan University Gallery and Studio Theatre and The Riley Theatre.

Cinema

Leeds is developing a reputation as one of the UK's film and photography hot spots. It is one of the only cities outside London where you can see the work of new filmmakers, learn about the history of film, visit a historic cinema or just get the popcorn in and kick back while you watch the latest blockbuster. West Yorkshire's interest in film is indulged by the recently renovated National Museum of Photography, Film & Television, in Bradford. This remarkable place attracts people from all over the country, who come to learn about the history of film, moving images and new media in an exciting interactive environment. The innovative Leeds Film Festival has now become a regular fixture in October. New films, shorts and classic films are shown all over the city in all sorts of venues. As well as cinema screenings, films are shown in the trendy Exchange Quarter bars so you can eat, drink and take in some culture all at the same time. If you feel like a night at the movies there is an array of venues to choose from. The massive Warner Brothers complex, and The Showcase each serve up all the latest releases in true American style (with popcorn, ice-cream and a bit of glitz). If you are in town, The Odeon is handy. For something a bit different, head to one of Leeds' classic cinemas. The Hyde Park Picture House was built it 1914 and still has its original façade. Velvet curtains, faded décor and traditional gas lamps make it the perfect place to watch art house, classic and top quality films. The Lounge and Cottage Road cinemas in Headingley are also great venues for a cosy evening of film.

Live Music

Since The Beatles took on the world, the North of England has been the home of English music. Although there aren't any Leeds bands topping the charts at the moment, all the big bands play in Leeds because they know they will get a warm welcome. If you want to see the biggest names, have a look at who's playing at The Met or The Cockpit. Up and coming acts make names for themselves at Joseph's Well. And if you just want to drink your pint to the sound of some live music The Fenton, The Grove Inn and The Royal Park Cellars deliver just the right mixture of music and relaxed surroundings. If you're in the city in the summer, you might catch Rhythms of the City (July-August). It is a month-long summer festival with all sorts of entertainment and world music.

Drumming, dancing and all things different

Leeds might have some good bars, but if you really want to make the most of Leeds try one of these more adventurous activities - you'll have fun: learn to play big African drums on Tuesdays at Trade for Change; or, for some real dancing, try the Northern School of Contemporary Dance on Wednesdays for Afro-Caribbean dance; The Boston Exchange has Salsa on Tuesdays; and The Wardrobe has dance classes twice a week (there's Tango on Tuesdays and Salsa on Thursdays). If you just want to relax somewhere with some real atmosphere The Royal Park Cellars is the place to go.







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Atrium


Funky and fresh
6-9 Merrion Street
Leeds LS1 6PG
United Kingdom
+44 113 242 6116
http://www.digleeds.com
Large and stylish, the Atrium boasts a cocktail bar, restaurant, dance floor and club. It's a big hit with Leeds' trendy students and young professionals thanks to the great atmosphere and midweek drink specials. The club is always busy at weekends when The Cooker and Filling the Gap club nights take place. The modern restaurant serves food from 7p to 10p with delicious main courses such as tagliatelli pollo and crispy Szechuan duck.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Basics


Infamous house night
8 Harrison Street
Harrison Street (off New Briggate)
Leeds LS1 6PA
United Kingdom
+44 113 244 9474
Dave Beer's renowned house night is very popular with Leeds' stylish set. The friendly crowd here are always well up for the funky house they play. The Mint Club is a small and relaxed venue and there is even a garden area where you can chill out in the summer and take a breather when it all gets a bit too much inside. Basics is packed every Saturday, so come and see what all the fuss is about for yourself.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
City Art Gallery


A celebration of Britain's rich visual arts history
The Headrow
Leeds LS1 3AA
United Kingdom
+44 113 247 8248
This superb gallery has something for all artistic tastes, whether you're into Rego or Rodin. Lovers of fine art should head for the Arnold and Marjorie Ziff Gallery which is home to major works by Millais and Atkinson Grimshaw. Those who prefer sculpture will be impressed by the gallery's wonderful collection of pieces by Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth. A pit stop at the relaxing Gallery Café - serving a tempting assortment of pastries and cakes - is a must.

Review © 2007, Wcities
City Art Gallery photo by RCM
Photo: RCM
City Art Gallery photo by Edward Kimber
Photo: Edward Kimber
City Art Gallery photo by Tim Ridd
Photo: Tim Ridd
City Art Gallery photo by Nina Pope
Photo: Nina Pope
City Art Gallery photo by *pinkmunky*
Photo: *pinkmunky*
City Art Gallery photo by Kate
Photo: Kate
City Art Gallery photo by Abigail Thomas
Photo: Abigail Thomas
 

 
Cottage Road Cinema


Local single-screen cinema
7 Cottage Road
Headingley
Leeds LS6 4DD
United Kingdom
+44 113 275 1606
http://www.nm-cinemas.co.uk/
Of the three single-screen cinemas in the Headingley area, Cottage Road is the most modern and definitely the most comfortable. With just one screen, it lacks the choice offered by multiplexes, but shows a selection of the latest general releases. Recommended for its cheaper popcorn - compared with its multiplex counterparts, whose prices usually require some kind of overdraft extension! Easily accessible from Leeds city centre and the Headingley area.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Fenton


Live rock
161 Woodhouse Lane
Leeds LS2 3ED
United Kingdom
+44 113 245 3908
One of the best pubs in the Hyde Park area, The Fenton offers up live music and an unusual blend of people. Its location near the university means there are always quite a few students in, but this cozy pub also attracts the local rock crowd. Live music is staged most nights so the atmosphere is always buzzing. The pub's great lunchtime menu is served from 11.30a to 2p, Monday to Friday, and from midday to 2p on Saturdays. Special drinks prices on Saturday afternoons and all day Sunday are an added bonus.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Fenton photo by mariettazervou
Photo: mariettazervou
 

 
Grove Inn


Cosy with live folk music
Back Row
Off Water Lane
Leeds LS11 5PL
United Kingdom
+44 113 243 9254
People come here to relax, drink ale and enjoy the folk music which keeps this place alive. It's surprising that somewhere like this has kept going in this part of town - the business/industry district - but people who discover it love it because it's so unique. The only music-free night is Monday. For the rest of the week, there are mainly live folk bands and artists in the evening. There's a jamming session on Tuesday and 'Unplugged Leeds' on Wednesday. The lunchtime grooves are a perfect way to round off the weekend.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Henry Moore Institute


High-profile exhibitions and events
74 The Headrow
Leeds LS1 3AA
United Kingdom
+44 113 246 7467
http://www.henry-moore-fdn.co....
Since it opened in 1993, the Henry Moore Institute has fast gained a reputation as one of the top sculpture galleries in the North. Although it attracts some of the biggest names in sculpture - James Lee Byars and Jasper Johns to name just two - the Institute prides itself on being a showcase for raw new talent. The exciting and varied programme of exhibitions and events ensures that there is something for everyone, whatever their taste in art. Admission: Free

Review © 2007, Wcities
Henry Moore Institute photo by Tanja Wittig
Photo: Tanja Wittig
Henry Moore Institute photo by Kara Seaman
Photo: Kara Seaman
Henry Moore Institute photo by Stuart Cunningham
Photo: Stuart Cunningham
Henry Moore Institute photo by Alun John
Photo: Alun John
Henry Moore Institute photo by Paul Robinson
Photo: Paul Robinson
Henry Moore Institute photo by Janet Morrell
Photo: Janet Morrell
 

 
Hyde Park Picture House


Fantastic traditional picture palace
Brudenell Road
Leeds LS6 1JD
United Kingdom
+44 113 275 2045
Opened in 1908 as a hotel, the Hyde Park became a cinema in 1914 and remains one of the few picture palaces in Britain battling the growth of multiplexes with the help of its determined supporters. A listed building, the Hyde Park has been lovingly preserved and maintains original features, such as the exterior façade, gas lighting and Edwardian balcony. The only cinema in Leeds to offer 'art house' films, in addition to mainstream and classic films, the Hyde Park is the most unique cinema experience in the city. There are regular matinees on Saturdays and Sundays.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Hyde Park Picture House photo by paul emery
Photo: paul emery
Hyde Park Picture House photo by Shreena Soomarah
Photo: Shreena Soomarah
Hyde Park Picture House photo by Martin Declan Kelly
Photo: Martin Declan Kelly
Hyde Park Picture House photo by paul emery
Photo: paul emery
Hyde Park Picture House photo by Joe Skilton
Photo: Joe Skilton
 

 
International Film Festival


Prestigious event
Leeds
United Kingdom
+44 113 245 5505
http://www.leedsfilm.com
A must for all movie buffs, this international event attracts film-makers and audiences with an interest in innovative rather than lucrative movies. An exciting and eclectic range of feature films and shorts are presented. The films presented, although globally conscious and equally regional, not only entertain, but also address the genre of film-making by teasing, developing and challenging, rendering a viewing experience that is the complete antithesis of Hollywood. Prices vary according to event; check the web site for details.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Joseph's Well


Live music and beer
Chorley Lane
Leeds LS2 9NW
United Kingdom
+44 113 203 1861
http://www.josephswell.co.uk/
This modern pub is justifiably famous for its excellent live music and friendly atmosphere. The capacious function room is where it all happens, playing host to around 65 bands every month. The club has hosted many big names in the music circuit, playing enroute to fame, fortune and stardom. If you are a regular, you might just spot the next big band. The small, snacky menu includes Cajun burgers and other tasty treats. Many performances are free, others range from GBP2-5; call for details.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Joseph's Well photo by Chris Summerlin
Photo: Chris Summerlin
Joseph's Well photo by Matthew gorecki
Photo: Matthew gorecki
Joseph's Well photo by Epic Hero Cycle
Photo: Epic Hero Cycle
Joseph's Well photo by Nessuno (Leeds)
Photo: Nessuno (Leeds)
Joseph's Well photo by Chris Amblin
Photo: Chris Amblin
Joseph's Well photo by David Smalley
Photo: David Smalley
 

 
Mint


Quality dance club
8 Harrison Street
Leeds LS1 6PA
United Kingdom
+44 113 244 3168
This stylish club was created by legendary Leeds club promoter Dave Beer. It's a good looking venue with a glass block bar, Evian-sponsored outdoor garden and trendy 20-something clientele. The club's reputation barks louder than its bite seemingly: even though it still pulls in big name DJs, it has trouble attaining the atmosphere it once did. Still, it's worth going on a Saturday night for the infamous Basics, featuring the best of house for discerning music lovers.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
National Museum of Photography, Film and Television


Exciting, interactive displays galore
Pictureville
Leeds BD1 1NQ
United Kingdom
+44 1274 202 030
http://www.nmpft.org.uk
If you've ever wondered what happened to Humpty from Play School, here's your chance to find out. Alongside Humpty you will find other fascinating displays from television, film and photography. The interactive exhibitions are great fun and allow you to do things like read a live news bulletin, ride on a magic carpet and work behind the scenes of a television programme. The museum's cinemas show a range of incredible movies in dramatic IMAX and other formats. Visitors can learn how these amazing cinematic effects are achieved and even watch the projectionists at work. No wonder it's one of the most popular museums in the country! Admission: free except for the IMAX films.

Review © 2007, Wcities
National Museum of Photography, Film and Television photo by flickr: jonxyz
Photo: flickr: jonxyz
 

 
Royal Park Cellars


Atmospheric cabaret
Royal Park Road
39 Queen's Road
Leeds LS6 1NY
United Kingdom
This is the best night out in Hyde Park—not that there is too much competition. Held in the basement of the dingy Royal Park Pub, lots of talented local musicians and comedians show their latest stuff off to a regular and enthusiastic local audience. The quality and style of the performances varies but the atmosphere in this smoky little place is always great. Phone for details of forthcoming events.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Speed Queen


Flamboyant weekly house night
Somers Street
19-21 Somers Street
Leeds LS1 2RG
United Kingdom
+44 113 246 8287
This has got to be the campest, most flamboyant night out in Leeds. It's about a fifty-fifty mix of gay and straight clubbers and anyone with a tolerant attitude will enjoy themselves and be made very welcome. There is a mix of speed garage and house downstairs and funky stuff upstairs. It's not really the music that most people come for though, it's to dance and have a good time. Speed Queen packs out the Warehouse every third Saturday of every month and it gets pretty hot. Luckily, you can get an ice pop to suck on from the sweet shop upstairs. Most of the clientele dress to impress with outfits that range from the original to the frankly outrageous.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Speed Queen photo by Ben Walton
Photo: Ben Walton
 

 
The Grand Theatre


Century-old city theatre
46 New Briggate
Leeds LS1 6NZ
United Kingdom
+44 0870 121 4901
www.leedsgrandtheatre.com
Since opening in 1878, The Grand has staged an incredible range of performances and played host to some of the most famous names in theater. From ballet and opera, to stand-up comedy and drama, the Grand has been entertaining audiences with diverse tastes for over 100 years. In this time, it has developed associations with several esteemed companies; including the English National Ballet and Opera North. The Grand also stages a number of one-off performances. Standing its ground, despite the growing success of the West Yorkshire Playhouse, the Grand retains its traditional balconied interior and décor, giving it a historic character not present in modern establishments. Discounts are available for groups, senior citizens and students.

Review © 2007, Wcities
The Grand Theatre
Photo:
The Grand Theatre photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Trade for Change


Original furnishings and crafts plus a cafe
20 New Market Street
Leeds LS1 6DG
United Kingdom
+44 113 242 5356
http://www.tradeforchange.co.uk
This fair trade co-operative sells goods that are fascinating and distinctive, you can be sure that you won't see these items anywhere else. There's lots to choose from including ornaments, greetings cards, note pads, furnishings and crafts. It's definitely a good place to try if you want to buy something original and it's all in aid of a good cause. The shop also has a small selection of organic food and drink. Refreshments are provided by the Exchange Fair Trade Café.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Wardrobe


Highly regarded bar, club and restaurant
6 St. Peters Square
St. Peters Square
Leeds LS9 8AH
United Kingdom
+44 (0)113 383 8800
http://www.thewardrobe.co.uk/
This cool venue is home to a renowned restaurant and well-stocked cocktail bar on the ground floor, an exhibition gallery on the first floor, and a rocking basement club which features Friday night's Cuban groove extravaganza Casa Latina. The popular Yardbird Suite on Saturday nights has now been laid to rest and has been replaced by a new series of events hosted by DJs and MCs—check the website for forthcoming events. The Wardrobe Restaurant is pricey yet luxurious with a Mediterranean-inspired menu that is served from midday to 3p and 5:30p to 10p. Millefeuille of Aubergine and Parmesan Risotto are just two of the highlights. Another innovation is the introduction of the tasty Round Midnight menu from 10:30p.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Wardrobe photo by Alec Taylor
Photo: Alec Taylor
Wardrobe photo by Martin Laine
Photo: Martin Laine
Wardrobe photo by richard law
Photo: richard law
Wardrobe photo by andy rock
Photo: andy rock
 

 
Warner Village Cinemas


Modern, comfy multiplex
Kirkstall Road
Kirkstall Road
Leeds LS4 2DJ
United Kingdom
+44 113 279 9833
http://www.warnervillage.co.uk
Perhaps the comfiest cinema in Leeds with leg room aplenty, this nine screen multiplex shows the latest general film releases. The foyer is modern and glitzy and scattered liberally with amusing, yet disturbingly large, plastic cartoon characters, ensuring that you do not forget this is a Warner Brothers establishment. The whole cinema experience is marred only by its extortionately priced foodstuffs and often long queues. Booking recommended, especially Friday to Sunday evenings. Friday and Saturday late showings typically start after 11p.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
West Yorkshire Playhouse


Internationally acclaimed playhouse
Quarry Hill
(Playhouse Square)
Leeds LS2 7UP
United Kingdom
+44 113 213 7700
http://www.wyplayhouse.com/
Luvvies will love the internationally-acclaimed West Yorkshire Playhouse. Its reputation as one of the best theatres outside London is well deserved; productions range from innovative, contemporary plays to toe-tapping musicals. In the past, the theatre has attracted a veritable who's who of modern British theatre, including Prunella Scales, Timothy West, Steven Berkoff and Patrick Stewart. Prices range from EUR3-EUR30, depending upon seat, time, day and play.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Yorkshire Sculpture Park


Innovative displays
Beaumont Drive
West Bretton
Leeds WF4 4LG
United Kingdom
+44 1924 83 0579
http://www.ysp.co.uk
There are few art galleries that can boast a more unusual and attractive backdrop than the Yorkshire Sculpture Park. Set in over 500 acres of picturesque countryside, this 18th-century parkland showcases work by British and international artists, including Henry Moore. The outdoor setting is perfect, allowing visitors the chance to appreciate the works at their leisure - something which is not always possible within the confines of a city-centre gallery. The charity-funded institution also organises regular temporary exhibitions in partnership with artists from across Europe. A great day out. Note that the gallery closes at 5p in winter. Admission is free.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Yorkshire Sculpture Park photo by Sheila Thomson
Photo: Sheila Thomson
Yorkshire Sculpture Park photo by Sheila Thomson
Photo: Sheila Thomson
Yorkshire Sculpture Park photo by Brian Davies
Photo: Brian Davies
Yorkshire Sculpture Park photo by HorsesItch
Photo: HorsesItch
Yorkshire Sculpture Park photo by jesse harris
Photo: jesse harris
Yorkshire Sculpture Park photo by Mark Brooke
Photo: Mark Brooke
 

 
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Leeds - Historical Background
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Leeds - Where to Stay
Leeds - Dining & Drinking

Other nearby cities:
York (34 miles)
Sheffield (49 miles)
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Liverpool (107 miles)
Newcastle upon Tyne (130 miles)
Birmingham (148 miles)
Cambridge (205 miles)
Oxford (229 miles)
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Bristol (270 miles)

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