Chris Hawkins, the presenter of BBC 6’s early breakfast show and a DJ, has been announced as a new patron of The Piece Hall in Halifax.
This remarkable Georgian cloth hall, now managed by The Piece Hall Charitable Trust, has gained recognition as one of the top gig venues in the UK.
Famed for its stunning open-air courtyard, on a par with the great piazzas of Europe, it is now an award-winning retail, leisure and events space hosting a year round programme of music, culture and community festivals.
Piece Hall patrons are influential figures who have a crucial role in promoting and bringing attention to this unique heritage site. They contribute significantly to raising awareness of its endeavors and attracting fresh supporters.
Chris hosts a daily show on BBC Radio 6 Music, in addition to being the presenter of the top-ranked podcast “How To DJ.” He frequently hosts stages and DJs at music festivals, where he has conducted interviews with renowned music icons such as Calvin Harris, Florence Welch, Dave Grohl, and Bjork.
Chris will actively support The Piece Hall’s school and community initiatives, as well as its exceptional music program, which includes the highly acclaimed Live at The Piece Hall summer season, presented in collaboration with Cuffe and Taylor. Chris played a crucial role by providing behind-the-scenes coverage and conducting interviews during this year’s concerts, which attracted over 125,000 attendees to enjoy performances by renowned artists like Sting, James, and boygenius.
Chris Hawkins praised the Piece Hall as an awe-inspiring location in the UK and a remarkable venue for live music. The attraction of Halifax has led to the interest of renowned artists in performing there.
“I’m extremely honored to become a patron of Piece Hall, alongside Nicky Chance-Thompson MBE DL and her team. The remarkable piazza, complemented by a wide range of unique shops, restaurants, and bars, establishes this place as not only a gem in West Yorkshire but also a captivating tourist destination in the UK. I am excited to contribute towards solidifying its reputation as an exceptional music venue on a global scale.”
Former Halifax Courier Editor Chris Lever has been appointed as the new ambassador, a confirmation made by The Piece Hall.
Piece Hall ambassadors are individuals with strong local ties who leverage their influential voices to enhance the reputation of this historic structure. They play a crucial role in introducing the venue to new supporters, raising awareness about the Trust’s significant endeavors, and broadening its diversity and range of perspectives.
After joining the Evening Courier in 1990 as a senior reporter, the journalist from Calderdale dedicated over three decades to the newspaper.
Chris Lever expressed his deep honor upon being appointed as an ambassador for The Piece Hall. Being a proud Yorkshireman, he has consistently advocated for Halifax and embraced positivity towards the town and Calderdale throughout his extensive tenure at the Courier. He intends to sustain this commitment in his new position.
“The transformation of The Piece Hall into a premier tourism destination and renowned concert venue for internationally acclaimed bands is truly astonishing. Witnessing the positive impact it has on the town, along with its significant contribution to the Calderdale and Yorkshire economy, firmly establishes this region’s prominence. May this prosperity endure indefinitely.”
Sir Roger Marsh OBE DL, Chair of The Piece Hall Trust, expressed his delight in welcoming two exceptional supporters who will champion the ongoing achievements at the venue. The Piece Hall, a building of immense global importance situated in Halifax, is thriving, and our esteemed patrons and ambassadors play a crucial role in promoting its success.
“With the recent announcement of another busy Christmas program and an exciting lineup of gigs planned for next summer, being part of this exceptional heritage destination, centered around culture and community, is truly a remarkable experience.”
Chris Hawkins and Chris Lever have joined the esteemed team at The Piece Hall Charitable Trust, where they will immediately assume their roles to assist in supporting, promoting, and amplifying the crucial work of the organization.
