26 & 27 Sep 2025
Shipley Market Square
Bloom
Upswing
A magical open-air circus spectacle that celebrated community, connection and the people of Shipley.
Shipley burst into Bloom in September – with a major contemporary circus spectacle taking over the heart of the town.
Bloom was a large-scale circus performance celebrating the spirit of Bradford and its people – who we are today and who we could become tomorrow.
Taking place on the streets and in the skies of Shipley, it was a show about connection, possibility and what we can build together – a bold and joyful expression of community and local pride.
This large-scale bespoke production for Bradford, united local performers, community choirs, and the world-class acrobats and aerialists of Upswing, one of the UK’s leading contemporary circus companies.
Relive the magic of Bloom!
About Upswing
Upswing is a multi-award-winning UK-based contemporary circus company. Founded by Vicki Dela Amedume in 2006, Upswing uses the human body as an expressive tool to entertain, inspire curiosity, share urgent ideas and ignite a desire to build connection, telling new stories in extraordinary ways.
Cast and crew
See the full cast and crew for Bloom using the link below.
Produced at 101 Outdoor Arts Creation Space.
Closely inspired by writing created in May 2024 by members of Queer Saltaire, Shipley in Bloom, Health Action Local Engagement and Baildon, Shipley & Saltaire Men’s Shed, in collaboration with the People Powered Press.
Past event
Were you at this event?
Complete our feedback form and let us know what you thought.
Share your feedbackRelated Events
On display now
Tower of Now
Saad Qureshi
This soaring sculpture explores what it means to be British – and celebrates Bradford’s dazzling diversity.
On display now
Balancing Acts
Sam Shendi
A bespoke, playful structure created to celebrate the community and history of BD5.
On display now
40 Years of Checkpoint
Jamie Steward
Bradford’s West Indian community centre takes the spotlight in a vibrant new street artwork.
On display now
Breathe Breathe Breathe
Ricky Also in collaboration with Zayn Malik
Zayn Malik's lyrics make up this bold typographic artwork in Bradford City Centre, part of BD: Walls.
On display now
Wayfinders
misc.etc
This striking mural is a stark consideration of our connection to the natural environment and the ways in which we navigate physical and emotional spaces.
On display now
