The website www.stgeorgeshallheritage-bradford.co.uk tells the unique story of the stunning Victorian concert hall - tracing its history from 1853 to the present day and showing how it has survived and adapted through two world wars, changes of ownership and most recently a global pandemic.
The website illustrates the huge historical, cultural and aesthetic significance of St George’s Hall, not only for the city of Bradford, but also for its diverse communities.
Supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund to ensure the history of the hall is accessible and shared with the wider community, it includes a walk-through timeline, exhibitions including Black History, Rock & Pop, and The Suffragettes, with more currently being researched and developed.
Another central feature of the site is the ‘Memories of St George's Hall’ section which asks audience members to share their fondest reflections of the venue.
Adam Renton, General Manager Bradford Theatres said
“We hope that people of all ages will enjoy browsing the new site and learning about Bradford’s first public grand building and its heritage and perhaps even share their own memories and experiences of St George’s Hall. A big thank you to the National Lottery Heritage Fund for enabling us to launch the site.”
St George's Hall reopened in 2019 following a major renovation funded by Bradford Council and the National Lottery Heritage Fund. The extensive refurbishment included major works to the roof, windows, electrics and stone work. The front-of-house areas were increased, and seating upgraded to improve sight lines and comfort, whilst ensuring the world class acoustics are unaffected.
Unique displays of photographs and posters now weave along all four levels of the venue and the launch of the new website means that even more archive material can be enjoyed – helping retain and develop even stronger links with the local community.
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Notes to editors:
Using money raised by the National Lottery, we inspire, lead and resource the UK’s heritage to create positive and lasting change for people and communities, now and in the?future. www.heritagefund.org.uk. Follow @HeritageFundUK on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram and use #NationalLotteryHeritageFund
