Since 2011 we have been animating our city with brilliant interactive live art projects in which we invite the public to join us in playful enquiry, silent contemplation, astonishing feats of madness, hospitality and communality within and beyond the theatre or the gallery, in the places where we live, work and play.

We believe that everyone can enjoy the very best of contemporary live art and we work closely with partners around the city and beyond to present thought provoking, entertaining and moving projects in a range of settings including libraries, markets, museums, shopping centres and the city streets.

We take time to work with artists and communities making sure the projects we commission are considered and fully engaged with their surroundings.

Compass is also the driving force behind Compass Festival, a biennial festival of live and interactive art projects that take place all over Leeds. The 5th edition of Compass Festival is coming to Leeds in Spring 2021.

Join our mailing-list to find out more about our exciting plans for 2021.

See images from 2018

See images from 2016

What Audiences Say

“I really wouldn’t have expected to stumble on some place so lovely just at my doorstep... we had such good conversations. Normally that’s not really like me, I’m quite shy...”

“Fantastic event – loved the fact that it was silent so we were able to digest it and make our own thoughts...”

‘A great way to step out of the regular city life and discover a new perspective of it...’

“We were absolutely bowled over – fantastic in both concept and execution!! “

“I’m so happy I could cry!” 

Information for Artists

We create our programmes carefully through a range of artist residencies, open calls for proposals and invited commissions.

Applications to our residency programme and festival open calls are currently closed. We will be seeking new projects from summer 2021.

The best way to keep in touch with us is to join our mailing list via the contact page to keep abreast of the latest opportunities, coming to a Compass event or by dropping us an email to introduce yourself and your work. We look foward to meeting you.