BRAVE brought together a vibrant mix of professional artists, community performers, and local creatives for an unforgettable celebration of Black roots and voices.

2025’s festival highlights included:

• Dynamic Performances from artists rooted in Black cultural traditions.
• Interactive Workshops in African dance and drumming, Caribbean Carnival dance, Steel Pan, Swing, and much more.
• Creative Activities such as costume-making and storytelling for all ages
• A welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere with something for everyone
• The festival operated on a “Give What You Decide” or “pay as you feel” basis to ensure accessibility and inclusivity for all.

Tickets for BRAVE Festival 2025 will be available soon via the Bradford Arts Centre website!

Tricia Arthur-Stubbs was the director of BRAVE Festival in 2025. She had been working as a performer, workshop leader and creative for 20 years. Tricia is also the founder of Swirl Education, which focuses on leading world dance workshops at events and in schools. Tricia’s Trinidad and Tobago heritage led her to specialise in Caribbean Carnival Dance. Her work is based on the belief that dance should be fun, accessible to all and that dance can bring positive change.

This project is supported by the Bradford 2025 Artist-led Project Awards programme.

Find out more about this programme and the projects we’ve supported below.