Welcome to Gulbenkian

Gulbenkian is the University of Kent’s Arts Centre offering innovative, engaging and high quality arts activity for the public, staff and students. It provides a key role in delivering the University commitment to public engagement and has a particular focus on the creative empowerment of children and young people.

Gulbenkian’s Story: Radical Roots & Dangerous Ideas

Gulbenkian celebrated its 50th anniversary in summer 2019, forged in a time when conventions were being questioned and traditions being challenged. In 1969, The Vietnam War raged, Woodstock raved, man landed on the moon, the Paris student rebellion was fresh in the mind. Young people felt they could change the world, the University of Kent was a hotbed of radical action, using creative thinking to find answers to society’s problems.

50 years on, Gulbenkian remains an organisation with a radical vision. We believe that young people’s voices must be heard and we are committed to providing time, space and opportunities for them to experiment, discover and create. Time that is squeezed from busy daily life, artistic space that is in short supply here in Kent, precious opportunities to speak up and change the world.

Gulbenkian is a powder keg, where young people, artists, academics and communities meet and exchange ideas. As these new ideas explode, we see confidence grow, careers form, talent get uncovered, work get created and the future unfurl.

We spoke to students, staff, alumni and the local community who have made the Gulbenkian their own over the past 50 years. You can read their thoughts and memories below.

Aaron Thompson, Kent Union President 2018/19

“As a first year student I was part of the Kent Dance Society and being able to dance on the Gulbenkian stage with my friends and for my friends was a great experience. Every year since then I’ve had a relationship with Gulbenkian and I’ve seen it as my home for the arts.

When I was the President of Kent Dance in my third year, the Gulbenkian sponsored us. When I became the Vice-President (Activities) at Kent Union I sat on their Advisory Board, fed in early ideas for the student offering as well as the appointment of the new Director. As the President of Kent Union, I continued to support the aims of Gulbenkian and the Arts and Culture Strategy more widely.

The Gulbenkian gives back and supports students in so many ways and I’m hugely proud to be part of its story.”

Neelam Saredia, Poet

“My first spoken word performance was at Gulbenkian around six years ago! It was a shaky and quiet one, but since then I’ve grown in confidence, strength and voice - now I’m an established poet and perform all across Kent. I have performed at Gulbenkian several times since then, and each one feels like connecting with old roots. I have a lot of love for that stage, which welcomes people of all different ages, backgrounds, cultures & abilities.

I also used to be Creative Learning Assistant here and seeing the incredible support & opportunities Gulbenkian gives to children and young people is phenomenal. It was brilliant to be part of an organisation that genuinely changes lives.”

Simon Nicol, Guitarist and Lead Singer – Fairport Convention

“Fairport Convention is even older than the Gulbenkian Theatre, by two years. Coming to Canterbury in the early days meant we took in the Odeon in the Friars (before it was renamed The Marlowe, where we were to become regulars during the 80’s and ‘90s) and played on the University Campus at Rutherford and Keynes. On one occasion we were supported by a new young band called Genesis. I wonder what happened to them?

So my first real experience on what has become one of my very favourite stages was probably when The Albion Christmas Band began our annual seasonal performances here for Debs Earl (Folk in the Barn) who over time became my partner. Fairport Convention are also now firmly established on the ‘regulars’ list, and I’m delighted about that too. There isn’t a bad spot on the stage, and there’s not a bad seat in the house. Which makes the place extra special.”

Laura Murray, Principal, Limelight Stage School

“I discovered the Gulbenkian ten years ago after the venue I used to hire for my dance show could not accommodate my booking. I have never looked back since -– I am treated like one of the family every year and my pupils receive a professional show experience in the theatre even though they are only at amateur level, creating memories for life.

The ambience and the facilities surrounding the theatre are amazing - such a cultural experience for all ages in beautiful surroundings. Just perfect.”