A new radio play is set to take listeners on a time-travelling adventure across Yorkshire, celebrating Bradford’s status as the 2025 UK City of Culture.
Commissioned by BBC Radio Leeds as part of the Bradford 2025 celebrations, Bilal and Ted’s Bradfordian Adventure follows two teenage friends as they explore the city’s rich cultural history. Written by Keighley-born playwright Nick Ahad, the play aims to highlight Bradford’s artistic legacy through a mix of humour, heart, and history.
The story centres on schoolboys Bilal and Ted, who, while searching for inspiration about their hometown, stumble upon a statue of JB Priestley. A single touch catapults them through time and space, where they encounter iconic figures, including Emily Brontë, and witness the cultural highlights that define Bradford.
Nick Ahad, who also works as an arts journalist and broadcaster, describes the production as “a love letter” to Bradford, saying:
“This play is a way to prove to us Bradfordians and everyone else that we absolutely are the cultural powerhouse some of us know we are.”
Local talent plays a key role in the production, with Bradford-based actors Solomon Grant and Armaan Ali starring as Bilal and Ted. The pair were recruited from community theatre groups, joining a cast that includes Emmerdale actors Mark Charnock and Dominic Brunt, Deborah McAndrew, and BBC New Comedy Awards semi-finalist Seeta Wrightson.
For Solomon and Armaan, the play offers an opportunity to showcase their city’s heritage. Solomon said: “Bradford is like a warm hug. It’s home. The city’s old architecture makes you feel like you’re stepping into the past, and it’s rich with history that makes me proud.”
Armaan echoed his sentiments, adding:“The people are what make Bradford special – they’re the kindest, loveliest people you’ll ever meet.”
BBC Yorkshire Head Katrina Bunker praised the production, describing it as “funny, heartwarming and eye-opening”: “It makes the point that culture is about much more than books, music, or food – it’s about the people who make a place unique. It’s a lovely listen and a great way to kick off this exciting year for Bradford.”
Bilal and Ted’s Bradfordian Adventure will be broadcast on BBC Radio Leeds on Thursday 2 January at 9am and Tuesday 7 January at 1pm, with listeners able to catch up on BBC Sounds.
