The Lowry launches new podcast series celebrating 25 years of creativity, community and the transformation of Salford Quays

Lowry has released a new three-part podcast series capturing the stories, voices and memories of the people who have shaped the organisation’s 25‑year journey at the heart of Salford Quays, and the transformation of the former Manchester Docks from a post‑industrial landscape into a thriving cultural and creative hub.

The series of three podcasts produced in partnership with the University of Salford; Lowry and the Beginning, Lowry and Creativity, and Lowry and Community, forms part of Lowry Turns 25, a year-long project supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Hosted and produced by a trio of North West creatives: David Scott (ARGH KiD), Eleanor Whitehurst, and Mia Thornton, and executive produced by North West-based podcast producer and artist Olivia Graham. Each of the podcasts explores the people, ideas and cultural moments that have helped build Lowry into one of the UK’s leading arts organisations.

David Scott said: “Even after living in the area all my life, the stories of Northerners’ resolve never fail to surprise me. The origins of Lowry are a powerful reminder of what’s possible when ambition, community, and belief come together. Bringing this story to life on the podcast was as intriguing for me, as it was an honour.”

Matt Woodhead, Co‑Director of LUNG (Lowry Partner Company) and guest on the Lowry and Community episode, said: “Taking part in the One Lowry, Many Stories podcast gave me a rare moment to pause and really think about why Lowry has been such a vital creative partner for LUNG. When you’re in the thick of making work, you don’t often stop to consider the threads that tie your process, your collaborators and your values together.  Reflecting out loud reminded me that our work is never made in isolation; it’s built on years of trust, conversation and shared belief in making theatre with and for people. Lowry has been central to that journey” 

EPISODE 1: Lowry and the Beginning 

Ever wondered what it takes to imagine and build a multi‑purpose, world‑class arts venue on a disused dock? After the industrial decline of the 1980s, the Manchester Docks stood empty – but not for long. This episode tells the story of a determined group of people who rallied local and national support for a bold new vision: bringing world‑class art to Salford.

Before the first brick was laid, there were ideas and campaigns, community consultations, trips to London and to the ballet, lottery wins, setbacks, and local heroes. This podcast takes you back to Lowry’s earliest days — before there was even a building to step inside.

Produced by David Scott – Manc poet, author, BBC presenter, podcaster, producer, actor, and musician. Known professionally as ARGH KiD, David blends sharp social insight with a distinctive creative voice that swings between heartfelt, humorous, and unapologetically honest.

Producer & Editor: David Scott (ARGH KiD) 
Executive Producer: Olivia Graham 
Featuring: Cllr Bill Hinds, Felicity Goodey 

EPISODE 2: Lowry and Creativity 

From the highs of circus performance to an exhibition filmed in the depths of the building, Lowry is bursting with creativity from top to bottom. This episode explores the artistic processes that have shaped the last 25 years at Lowry and told in the words of the artists, theatre‑makers, partners and staff who bring the building to life. 

Produced by TV and Radio Production graduate Eleanor Whitehurst, whose passion lies in storytelling through audio. Eleanor has produced a radio package broadcast on both BBC York and BBC Radio Leeds and during her time at the University of Salford, produced several professional podcasts, live radio shows and radio drama. 

Producer & Editor: Eleanor Whitehurst 
Executive Producer: Olivia Graham 

EPISODE 3: Lowry and Community 

This episode explores Lowry’s community to reveal the difference cultural venues can make in people’s lives. Listeners will hear how Lowry has supported, challenged and opened new creative pathways, how its programmes have built confidence and connection, created welcoming spaces for local communities, and brought lived experiences directly onto the stage through collaborations with organisations such as Barnsley‑based theatre company LUNG. 

Produced by Mia Thornton, a creative producer working across audio, visual and multi‑platform media. Mia specialises in storytelling that shines a light on underrepresented perspectives, challenges stereotypes and empowers communities to tell their own stories. In 2025 she received the British Podcast Awards’ Rising Star award and the APA’s New Producer award. She recently produced and hosted the BBC Sounds Audio Lab series Instrumental: Black British Trailblazers, celebrating the contributions of Black British artists across classical, dance, punk, pop and folk. 

Producer: Mia Thornton 
Executive Producer: Olivia Graham 

Listen to all three episodes now wherever you get your podcasts here.