Meet the Luton innovators bringing their projects to life with the ‘Lightning Fund’

The Luton Arts Programme’s Lightning Fund has given money to artists, creatives and entrepreneurs in the town to give them a chance to shine.

​Let’s get familiar with the individuals and groups behind these ventures:

Acoustic Survey Art Lab is running Adventures in Sound, a series of workshops exploring rhythm, improvisation, and play, encouraging participants to engage deeply with sound and listening.

Ayah creates floral and canvas installations that transform local spaces into vibrant reflections of life and belonging, engaging the community through immersive art

Burford Centre founder Chris Burford specialises in rehabilitation and empowerment through fitness, particularly supporting those with chronic illness or injury. He will run art workshops supporting stroke survivors and people with neurological conditions.

Dana Hudson is developing Where the Arrow Falls, a queer musical retelling of Achilles and Patroclus, which has been created at the Hat Factory and showcases her innovative theatre practice.

Derek Stewart is producing a docuseries that spotlights Luton’s creatives, musicians, and community champions, celebrating the local talent and positive impact of individuals in the town.

Reviving Luton’s iconic hat-making history, James Anderson is being helped by the fund to restore historic machinery and teaches these skills to future generations through his business, Anderson Hatters.

Sound artist and gardener, Laura Mathurin, is creating immersive audio stories with young people in local community gardens, combining soundscapes, storytelling, and hands-on participation to connect people with nature.

Luton Spark Productions is leading a community-led theatre project that blends martial arts and comedy to explore themes of resilience and confidence, empowering participants and audiences alike.

Artist and teacher Nadia Hussain uses her painting and Arabic calligraphy skills to share stories through art in both community and commissioned settings.

South Asian Muslim cook and content creator Safoora Ahmed is creating My Nan, My Roots, a video series that shares family stories and heritage.

And unnamed emerging filmmaker will capture Luton’s stories through professional training and providing equipment.

Cllr Hazel Simmons said: “Luton’s creative community is one of our greatest strengths, and these projects will bring joy, inspiration and pride to our town. Arts and culture play a vital role in improving wellbeing, celebrating our diversity, and building a stronger, more vibrant Luton.”