'Leeds doesn’t get the recognition it deserves': Testament named Leeds Heritage Theatres Associate Artist
The acclaimed West Yorkshire multidisciplinary artist steps into a major two-year role designed to champion local talent and shine a national spotlight on the Leeds cultural scene
Leeds Heritage Theatres has announced a landmark two-year partnership with acclaimed writer, rapper, and live beatboxer Testament, who officially joins the organisation as an Associate Artist.
The initiative follows a successful pilot programme run between 2024 and 2025, designed specifically to give regional creative talent the space, funding support, and creative freedom to develop original work while deepening connections with local audiences and venue teams.
A second local artist is scheduled to join the rolling programme in 2027.
Through the scheme, selected artists receive dedicated time and venue space to create and test new material. They are also backed by professional development opportunities, including mentoring, fundraising advice, marketing support, and technical expertise, alongside a direct role in shaping Leeds Heritage Theatres' position as a cultural hub.
Speaking on the appointment, Testament said: “I am grateful for this opportunity. I hope I can bring uplifting and positive work to this city that has given me so much.
"Leeds is so full of great talent and ideas that it often doesn’t get the recognition it deserves. As an artist here, I hope to use this time to encourage young people in this city as well as bring a national spotlight to how amazing this place truly is.”
Based in West Yorkshire, Testament boasts a massive multidisciplinary track record that spans spoken word, composition, radio presenting, and live beatboxing—for which he holds a Guinness World Record.
He has already established strong ties with Leeds Heritage Theatres, having recently led children's beatbox workshops for five to 12-year-olds during the inaugural Explore Easter festival.
He also performed a memorable set at the City Varieties alongside jazz pianist Matthew Bourne, Grammy winner Corinne Bailey Rae, and the Far Cry Acapella Choir as part of the William Blake Remixed project.
Beyond his local contributions, Testament’s work has achieved significant national reach. As a playwright, he has written for top-tier institutions including the Royal Court, Shakespeare’s Globe, and Leeds Playhouse, and previously served as the Channel 4 Writer in Residence at the Royal Exchange Theatre.
His versatile screenwriting credits include high-profile projects for Netflix, Disney+, the BBC, and Channel 4.