Breaking into the creative industry is never easy, but last night at Arts at the Arms’ 10th Scratch Night, it was clear that Leeds has a platform where emerging artists can genuinely flourish.Â
Founded by playwright Chris O’Connor, actor James Underwood, and arts facilitator Lily Craig, Arts at the Arms has grown from intimate beginnings at the historic Cardigan Arms pub to stages such as Leeds Playhouse and Sunny Bank Mills. What’s remarkable is how the vision of these three to give underrepresented voices room to experiment, develop, and be heard comes through in every performance. Being in that room, it was impossible not to feel the energy and care that underpins the organisation.
The evening opened with Sean Webster, performed by Izzie Smith and directed by Rachael Halliwell. This Northern-rooted piece explored the struggles of working-class families during the miners’ strike. Smith’s grounded, emotionally honest performance, combined with Halliwell’s thoughtful direction, made the story feel immediate and deeply human. The piece reminded everyone in the audience why regional storytelling is so vital connecting history, identity, and lived experience in a way that still resonates today.
Images: Sarah Underwood
Comedy followed, with Karen Flowerdew and Mick Tickner delivering sets that had the room roaring with laughter. Their sharp timing and clever observational humour provided a joyful, lighthearted counterpoint to the emotional intensity of the opening piece, showing the range of voices and styles Arts at the Arms brings to the stage.
A highlight of the night was Gamimi Khurana, whose folk-inspired songs explored her move from India to the UK as a student. Her performance was intimate, introspective, and emotionally resonant, weaving personal storytelling with a clear homage to her cultural heritage. The quiet power of her work lingered in the room long after the final note, a testament to the depth of talent nurtured by Arts at the Arms.
Images: Sarah Underwood
What makes this organisation truly special is the dedication of its founders. Chris, James, and Lily have created more than just a showcase they’ve built a supportive, sustainable ecosystem for Northern creatives. Their commitment ensures that emerging artists have a safe space to take risks, experiment, and connect with audiences, something increasingly rare in today’s arts landscape.
Last night’s Scratch Night was a celebration of creativity at its most raw, authentic, and vibrant. Each performance offered something unique, reflecting the diversity and vitality of Leeds’ creative community.Â
For anyone passionate about new theatre, comedy, music, or poetry, Arts at the Arms is more than a night out it’s an essential experience. Under the guidance of Chris, James, and Lily, Northern talent continues to take centre stage in the heart of the city, and if you ever get the chance to attend, it’s an experience that stays with you long after the lights dim.
This Leeds-based family-owned business is famed for supplying pubs, clubs and even ordinary people's homes with classic jukeboxes.
Started up in 1978, Sound Leisure really is a local business like no other, creating and distributing classic jukeboxes to over 40 countries.
This music-machine-making company notes that 75% of the jukeboxes they manufacture and sell throughout the year are bought for everyday homes.
The remaining 25% of orders are for the all-expected hospitality venues like bars, clubs and hotels, with the jukeboxes sometimes bought for company headquarters and retail outlets too.
Although there are other jukebox manufacturers, especially across the pond in the US, Sound Leisure is the only factory in the world that creates jukeboxes to play out across all formats: CD, vinyl and digital.
This jukebox business even runs the world's only 'Custom Shop', which is a design service that offers any music lovers the chance to personalise their pristine player.
So whether you're after a themed jukebox, customisable nameplate or even a bespoke design, this jukebox company's website states: "If you can dream it, we can build it".
One of Sound Leisure's prized products is the music machine inspired Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band-themed jukebox which any fan of The Beatles would dream of being its lucky owner.
And there really isn't anything they can't do, as alongside creating classic jukeboxes, the same team even make pinball machines, football tables, LED signs and more.
With CD and vinyl jukeboxes from £5,000 and digital jukeboxes quoted from upwards of £12,000, we're going to need a fair few rainy days to save up our money.
However, you can still marvel at these magnificent music machines without having to dip into your savings, with guided tours starting from just £15.
If you're up for learning a little bit more about music technology or simply after admiring these classic jukeboxes in all their glory, you can find out more about the factory and book your guided tour ticket HERE.
Two giant balloon dog sculptures by acclaimed international artist have landed in Leeds
Clementine Hall
A special Pride activation featuring internationally acclaimed contemporary artist Whatshisname has popped up in Leeds.
Marking 20 years of Leeds Pride and 10 years of Victoria Leeds, the exhibition called ‘Two milestones, One Pop of Pride’ is bringing a playful public art experience to the city.
The exhibition, curated by Castle Fine Art located in the Victoria Quarter, features a collection of artworks and oversized sculptures by the artist, whose distinctive creations have earned a global following.
The striking centrepiece of the activation is two of Whatshisname's iconic POPek Balloon Dog sculptures, one is positioned on the central mosaic in Victoria Quarter and the other outside John Lewis in Victoria Gate.
Image: The Hoot Leeds
Victoria Leeds centre director, Jo Coburn, said: "This year presents a unique opportunity to celebrate two important milestones for Leeds. As we mark 10 years of Victoria Leeds and 20 years of Leeds Pride, we wanted to create something memorable that reflects the city's creativity, inclusivity and vibrant cultural scene. Whatshisname's work perfectly captures a sense of joy, individuality and self-expression, making it an ideal way to celebrate Pride with our visitors."
Artist, Whatshisname, said: "Bringing the POPek balloon dogs to such a vibrant and culturally rich city as Leeds is an absolute thrill for me. It’s hard to believe it’s been a decade since these playful, cheeky characters first came to life. Over the years, they’ve travelled the world, sparking smiles wherever they go.
“I can’t wait for the people of Leeds to interact with them, feel that sense of nostalgia and humour, and join us in the Victoria Leeds and Leeds Pride celebrations!"
The Whatshisname exhibition will be on display at Victoria Leeds until Monday 27 July.
Declan Kelly -
13th December 2025 
