Over the past two years, Reignite has grown into a dynamic platform where culture, business, education, technology and placemaking intersect, showcasing how culture and creativity connect to every corner of the economy.
Reignite X dives into regional projects that have been seen around the world, including Gary Oldman’s sell-out performance at York Theatre Royal and York’s renowned Early Music Festival, to demonstrate the importance of culture and creativity as key drivers of investment, economic resilience and growth.
Reignite X: Exporting Ideas is on Wednesday 1st October from 6-9pm at York Theatre Royal. Registration is now open via Eventbrite. Guests will enjoy a lineup of expert speakers followed by networking, refreshments and live DJ.
“Reignite has always been about connecting ideas, industries, and people,” said Cherie Federico, Director of Aesthetica. “Over the past 10 editions, the programme has explored topics ranging from the transformative power of digital innovation to the regeneration of city spaces through culture. This edition demonstrates how the creativity generated here can travel beyond our region, influencing global audiences and creating opportunities across sectors. It’s a celebration of ideas that shape reputations, attract investment, and connect communities both locally and internationally.”
Guest Speakers:
- Delma Tomlin, Director of the National Centre for Early Music, sharing how their recent festival reached over 1 million listeners on BBC Radio 3, illustrating the international resonance of regional cultural programming.
- Tim Leigh, Chief Creative Officer at Stage One, presenting their work on the 2025 Serpentine Pavilion, A Capsule in Time, designed by Bangladeshi architect Marina Tabassum, entirely built and shipped from York.
- Paul Crewes, York Theatre Royal, reflecting on a 35-night sell-out Gary Oldman production that captured national and international media attention, demonstrating the global potential of regional theatre.
- Marie-Anne McQuay, Curator of Liverpool Biennial, sharing insights from BEDROCK (2025), featuring over 30 international artists and tens of thousands of visitors, showing how world-class contemporary art can redefine a city’s identity while generating lasting civic and economic impact.
Rachel Bean, Project Manager at York BID, said: “Over nine events, Reignite has shown how culture intersects with business, tourism, technology, and education to create growth that reaches far beyond the creative industries. The longevity of Reignite is a testament to the impact it’s having in York and North Yorkshire, and we invite everyone to join us at this milestone event.”
Reignite X invites attendees to explore how cultural ambition can be translated into influence, investment, and opportunity. The event offers practical insights, inspiring examples, and a chance to connect with key thinkers shaping the creative economy and driving the city’s UNESCO City of Media Arts designation forwards.
Registration for Reignite X is now open via Eventbrite. This event is open for all to attend:https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1643491851369?aff=oddtdtcreator
Reignite X is supported by Aesthetica, York BID, York Theatre Royal and York & North Yorkshire Combined Authority.
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