Smash-hit comedy musical The Book of Mormon is making its way back to Leeds this November.
Known and loved for being one of the best musicals of the 21st Century, scooping up dozens of coveted awards both in the US and here in the UK along the way after it first debuted on Broadway back in 2011 and then went on to take the West End by storm in 2013, The Book of Mormon is heading out on another UK tour in 2025.
And, of course, the Elders will be paying us a visit here in Leeds.
The hilarious musical production will take to the stage at the Leeds Grand Theatre in mid-November from Tuesday 11 to Saturday 29.
Image: The Book Of Mormon
Unfamiliar with the show? The Book of Mormon follows a pair of Mormon boys who are sent on a mission to a place that’s a long way from their home in Salt Lake City.
The multi-award-winning production is the work of South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone.
It was also co-created alongside revered stage songwriter Robert Lopez, who is the first and only double ‘EGOT’ winner, so you just know it’s a good show.
Since making its world premiere in 2011 on Broadway, The Book of Mormon has been performed on three continents, and has smashed all sorts of long-standing box office records in New York, London, Melbourne, Sydney, and cities across the US along the way.
Image: The Book Of Mormon
It’s also won a whopping nine Tony Awards, and over 30 international awards too.
When it first took to the stage in the West End back in February 2013, the London production set the record for the highest single day of sales in West End history, and then went on to scoop four Olivier Awards – including for ‘Best New Musical’.
Early ticket access is available from midday on Thursday 30 January to 10am on Friday 7 February, sign up here so you don't miss out.
Get ready to enjoy a taste of the Caribbean as Jerk Junction is gearing up to open in Leeds.
The street food favourite has made waves in the foodie scene over in Manchester and Liverpool, so it's only right that its making its way into Trinity Kitchen.
Jerk Junction specialises in authentic Caribbean flavours, from dumplings and jerk chicken to curried goat and rice and peas, it's all flame-grilled and packed with island spices.
It is expected to open this spring.
Image: The Manc Group
Steven Foster, Centre Director at Trinity Leeds, said: “We’re so excited to be welcoming Jerk Junction to Trinity Kitchen and we’re sure it will prove very popular. Bringing an authentic Caribbean flavour to Leeds, it’s the perfect new addition and complements our already stellar line-up of street food vendors.”
Jake Shaffi, founder at Jerk Junction, said: “Jerk Junction is all about real Caribbean food and culture. Everything we do is rooted in Jamaican tradition, from bold spices and authentic cooking to dishes that bring people together.
“For us, food is family. From our kitchen to every person who comes to our counter, we want people to feel the warmth, the energy and the spirit of the islands. We can’t wait to bring those authentic flavours and good vibes to Trinity Kitchen.”
The announcement follows news that the UK’s largest independent boutique bowling brand Lane7, and footwear retailers schuh and Footasylum, would be opening at Trinity Leeds later this year, whilst the LEGO Store will be relocating to a larger space within the shopping centre.
Posting to their social media, The Maven said: "When news broke The Maven could close its doors at the end of March, the reaction across the city was immediate. The response from customers, bartenders, and hospitality operators showed just how much this bar means to Leeds.
"For nearly 15 years, The Maven has been one of the city’s most loved cocktail destinations and a true institution within the local bar scene.
"When we told you about its potential closure we were flooded with support and interest from across the hospitality community. In the days that followed, several Leeds-based operators stepped forward with genuine offers to buy the venue and keep the bar alive.
"At a time when our industry is too often filled with stories of closures, today brings a little hope - a story about a community stepping up to protect something it values.
"The reports that The Maven would close at the end of March are now firmly in the past: The Maven Lives.
"Thanks to the passion of the Leeds hospitality community and the loyalty of its guests, the bar will continue to be part of the city’s nightlife story. More details about the next chapter for The Maven will be shared soon."