Art & Culture
From pub to regional theatre – Arts at the Arms Scratch Night celebrates northern voices
Declan Kelly -
13th December 2025 
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.
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.
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.
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Featured image - Sarah Underwood
