Janine GriffithsA new performance exploring the experiences and voices of Leeds residents will premiere as the city marks 400 years since receiving its first Royal Charter.
Poet, playwright and performer Michelle Scally Clarke will present Division at The Warehouse in Holbeck on Friday 18 and Saturday 19 September 2026.
The performance has been created as part of the Leeds 400 celebrations.
It brings together spoken word, film and live voices gathered from people across the city.
Over the past six months, Clarke has worked with schools, community groups and individuals across Leeds.
Their stories, songs and reflections have helped shape the new performance.
Division explores themes including identity, division and resilience through the experiences of people living in Leeds today.
It also asks audiences to consider what the city is now and who it represents.
Clarke said the project was about listening to parts of Leeds’ story that are not always included in official accounts.
“A city only stays strong when its people are heard,” she said.
The Leeds-born poet has more than 25 years of experience and has been published by Route, Bloodaxe and Peepal Tree Press.
She has worked alongside artists including Linton Kwesi Johnson, Jean ‘Binta’ Breeze, Benjamin Zephaniah, Lemn Sissay, Brian Patten and Poet Laureate Simon Armitage.
Her previous work has been featured on BBC’s Contains Strong Language and Radio 3’s The Essay.
Clarke has also led community projects including Clear Out Your Closet and she has worked with the NHS, Leeds Playhouse, Space2 and Ilkley Literature Festival.
Division brings this community storytelling work to the stage in a new format.
The performance is free to attend, with a pay-as-you-feel collection on the night.
Advance registration is required to reserve a place.
Division will be performed at The Warehouse in Holbeck on Friday 18 and Saturday 19 September 2026.
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