Entertainment

If you read any of the big British papers you'll know that, all of a sudden, Leeds is the nation's new place to be and be seen. Over the past few years, Leeds has been changing. The canal-side and railway bridges, that for years had been reminders of Leeds' fallen industrial past, have been revamped and now form a chic industrial backdrop for Leeds' new cultural center—the Exchange Quarter. Leeds is changing and growing with enthusiasm. It' has the feeling of a place where things happen. This guide will make sure you know where to get in on the action.

Art
Leeds has never been known for its art—except perhaps Henry Moore. Over the past few years, as Leeds has been expanding, art has been overshadowed, while Leeds' businesses and nightlife have taken the limelight. But now, Leeds artists are now beginning to get noticed. The Leeds 13—a group of art students from the university—managed to get on national news a couple of years ago for staging a scam during their finals and since then degree shows have enjoyed a raised profile. Between May and June, you can visit final degree shows from students from The Metropolitan University, The College of Art and Design and The University of Leeds. The rest of the year you can visit one of Leeds' galleries: The Henry Moore Institute, City Art Gallery and the Yorkshire Sculpture Park (near Wakefield), all well-established art centres that are open all year round. There are also occasional shows by local and touring artists: East Street Studios have a reputation for their exhibitions and their recent F.K.A.A. (Formally Known as Art), was a great success.

Clubbing
At the weekend, people come from all over the country to go out and get down at Leeds' best clubs. Majestyk is the biggest and most popular. It's great if you're with a big crowd. Nights change all the time, but here are some pretty sure fire Saturday night hits: Speed Queen at the Warehouse on Saturday is a speed garage night with a kitsch twist; The Orbit at After Dark in Morley is one of the best industrial techno nights in the country—hardcore and banging if that's your thing; Basics at Mint is a renowned house night in a stylish venue; and you can be sure that whatever is on at The Wardrobe; The Underground; or The Atrium will keep you grooving all night long.

Theatre, Opera and Dance
Leeds has a small theatre scene but what it does have is good. The West Yorkshire Playhouse is one of Leeds' greatest modern institutions. They have recently started their own small theatre company who produce most of the plays that are shown here. They show contemporary productions and popular modern and traditional plays with a new twist; including Shakespeare and Oscar Wilde. The Grand Theatre is the only place in Leeds to see opera and the reputable Northern Ballet Company performs here too. There are some smaller theatres that show contemporary plays, dance, music and host touring companies. Try the Leeds Metropolitan University Gallery and Studio Theatre and The Riley Theatre.

Cinema
Leeds is developing a reputation as one of the UK's film and photography hot spots. It is one of the only cities outside London where you can see the work of new filmmakers, learn about the history of film, visit a historic cinema or just get the popcorn in and kick back while you watch the latest blockbuster. West Yorkshire's interest in film is indulged by the recently renovated National Museum of Photography, Film & Television, in Bradford. This remarkable place attracts people from all over the country, who come to learn about the history of film, moving images and new media in an exciting interactive environment. The innovative Leeds Film Festival has now become a regular fixture in October. New films, shorts and classic films are shown all over the city in all sorts of venues. As well as cinema screenings, films are shown in the trendy Exchange Quarter bars so you can eat, drink and take in some culture all at the same time. If you feel like a night at the movies there is an array of venues to choose from. The massive Warner Brothers complex, and The Showcase each serve up all the latest releases in true American style (with popcorn, ice-cream and a bit of glitz). If you are in town, The Odeon is handy. For something a bit different, head to one of Leeds' classic cinemas. The Hyde Park Picture House was built it 1914 and still has its original façade. Velvet curtains, faded décor and traditional gas lamps make it the perfect place to watch art house, classic and top quality films. The Lounge and Cottage Road cinemas in Headingley are also great venues for a cosy evening of film.
Live Music
Since The Beatles took on the world, the North of England has been the home of English music. Although there aren't any Leeds bands topping the charts at the moment, all the big bands play in Leeds because they know they will get a warm welcome. If you want to see the biggest names, have a look at who's playing at The Met or The Cockpit. Up and coming acts make names for themselves at Joseph's Well. And if you just want to drink your pint to the sound of some live music The Fenton, The Grove Inn and The Royal Park Cellars deliver just the right mixture of music and relaxed surroundings. If you're in the city in the summer, you might catch Rhythms of the City (July-August). It is a month-long summer festival with all sorts of entertainment and world music.

Drumming, dancing and all things different
Leeds might have some good bars, but if you really want to make the most of Leeds try one of these more adventurous activities—you'll have fun: learn to play big African drums on Tuesdays at Trade for Change; or, for some real dancing, try the Northern School of Contemporary Dance on Wednesdays for Afro-Caribbean dance; The Boston Exchange has Salsa on Tuesdays; and The Wardrobe has dance classes twice a week (there's Tango on Tuesdays and Salsa on Thursdays). If you just want to relax somewhere with some real atmosphere The Royal Park Cellars is the place to go.

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