Figures from the creative community have praised Basingstoke’s cultural scene, sharing how the borough has shaped their personal and professional journeys.
Towns will compete in small, medium and large categories for the Town of Culture award, with an overall winner receiving £3m to deliver a cultural programme during the summer of 2028 and two shortlisted towns receiving £250,000 each.
Becky Kitter, of Scratchbuilt Productions, described her move to Basingstoke as ‘the best decision I’ve ever made.’
Ms Kitter said: “What truly sets Basingstoke apart is the way culture is woven into the fabric of everyday life. Basingstoke’s cultural scene is vibrant, diverse, and welcoming.
“From local theatre productions and art exhibitions to music festivals and community events, there is always something happening that brings people together.”
She credited the town for supporting her as an artist for over 12 years.
Ms Kitter said: “It’s a place where artists are not only welcomed but genuinely valued.”
Her words were echoed by Jodie Marsh-Hoffmann, known professionally as Junk Jodie, who said her time in Basingstoke, especially with Proteus Theatre Company, helped shape her as an artist and performer.
Ms Marsh-Hoffmann said: “Every show I’ve written and made has been commissioned by Basingstoke Festival, so a big part of my journey has been built alongside the community I’m proud to represent.”
During lockdown, Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council gave her the opportunity to make videos about the history of Basingstoke.
She focused on Basingstoke Canal, the history of Jane Austen, where Thornycroft began, and the story of Highclere Castle.
For her contributions, she later won a Destination Basingstoke “A Place to Be Proud Of” award.
Ms Marsh-Hoffmann said: “I’ve seen how culture in this town is something people take part in, share, and build together.
“Winning Town of Culture would highlight how creative Basingstoke truly is and help artists like me continue making work that celebrates our town, while supporting us to keep developing and growing as artists.”
Actor Stephen Love, whose work has featured on Doctor Who, Netflix and Amazon, also voiced his support for the bid, describing Basingstoke as a ‘worthy recipient’ of the award, due to its nurturing environment.
Mr Love said: “I owe my successful career to the brilliant people of Basingstoke’s cultural scene.
“I came from a family that had no affliction to the arts.”
He said, if it had not been for the ‘game-changing’ contributions from Proteus Theatre and the Arts and Culture department from Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, he would not have been ‘presented with the opportunities that ultimately led to a career of working both nationally and internationally.’
He said: “I am a perfect example of the crucial impact these people, and all the other like-minded creatives in Basingstoke, have on the town.
“Such dedication and importance deserves to be recognised and celebrated.”
The deadline for Basingstoke’s Expression of Interest in the competition is March 31.
The council is inviting residents to get involved and share their experiences on what culture and Basingstoke mean to them.
To get involved and share your stories, email culture@basingstoke.gov.uk