Everything You Need to Know About Reignite XIII: Production & Creative Technologies

Ever wondered what happens when brilliant creative minds and cutting-edge technology get mixed together? It’s not just something from a sci-fi film. Actually, it's happening right here in Yorkshire, and it's creating a real buzz. A programme called Reignite has been quietly building a movement in York, bringing together all sorts of clever people to spark new ideas. Since it kicked off in September 2023, this series of events has attracted over 3,000 people, all keen to see how culture and innovation can shape the future. The next big get-together is happening on Wednesday, 18th March, and it’s all about production and the amazing world of creative technologies.

So, what is this Reignite thing all about?

Think of Reignite as more than just a series of talks; it's a proper movement. It’s a space where people from creative businesses, cultural groups, and even the folks who make city-wide decisions can meet up and chat. The main goal? To make York an even better place to live and work by putting creativity at the centre of everything. This is all about collaboration and placemaking, which is just a clever way of saying they’re actively shaping the city’s future. The programme has become a real force for economic growth in the region, connecting art with business and tech to build a stronger creative economy. It’s a fantastic example of cross-sector collaboration, where different industries work together to achieve something amazing. This ongoing cultural event has become a cornerstone of the local cultural strategy.

Cherie Federico, the Director of Aesthetica, puts it perfectly. She describes Reignite as a platform that’s helping to make big changes. She says that the programme is “about building momentum for the creative industries in York and the wider region,” adding that “since launching, we’ve brought together thousands of creatives, businesses, cultural organisations and innovators to spark conversations and generate opportunities. This is a movement that is transforming how York connects culture, technology and enterprise, and positioning our region on the national and international stage.”

A peek behind the curtain on the 18th of March

The next event, Reignite XIII, is set to pull back the curtain on some of the most exciting stuff happening in North Yorkshire. Taking place at the City Screen Picturehouse from 6 pm, the evening will focus on Production & Creative Technologies. This sounds a bit technical, but it’s basically about all the cool new ways stories are told and entertainment is made. Imagine the technology behind the special effects in a blockbuster film, the immersive worlds of virtual reality games, or the incredible visuals at a massive concert. That’s the kind of innovation being discussed.

There will be talks from some of the region’s trailblazers, including XR Stories, Production Park, and CoStar LiveLab. These organisations are at the forefront of things like immersive storytelling and digital performance. Afterwards, the evening isn't just about sitting and listening. There's a big emphasis on networking, giving everyone a chance to chat over drinks with a live DJ in the background. To top it off, guests will be treated to a special screening of BAFTA-nominated short films from the Aesthetica Film Festival, a reminder of the incredible creative talent the region nurtures. It’s a fantastic chance to see how production and technology merge to create something truly special, strengthening the area’s creative infrastructure.

Why this matters for York

This isn't just a one-off event; it’s part of a much bigger picture that cements York’s reputation as a creative powerhouse. The city is a designated UNESCO Creative City, and initiatives like Reignite show exactly why. The collaboration between York BID and Aesthetica is a brilliant example of how partnerships can boost the entire city. Aesthetica is known internationally for its BAFTA-qualifying Aesthetica Film Festival, the Aesthetica Art Prize, and the Future Now Symposium, all of which support ambitious cultural futures. By working together, these organisations are helping to shape a vibrant creative economy.

As Rachel Bean, Project Manager at York BID, highlights: “working with Aesthetica through Reignite shows how collaboration can strengthen York’s creative and cultural sectors, and the wider economy of York. Together, we’re supporting businesses, attracting new talent and visitors, and helping York continue to thrive as a vibrant, creative, and trailblazing city.” Having world-class facilities like Production Park just a short distance away further shows how the entire region is investing in its creative future, driving innovation and growth.

The practical bits and bobs

Fancy being part of this exciting evening? The good news is that it's completely free to attend, but spaces are limited and likely to get snapped up quickly. Here’s everything that's needed to know:

• Date: Wednesday 18th March 2026

• Time: Doors open at 5:30 pm, with the event starting at 6:00 pm

• Venue: City Screen Picturehouse, York

• Tickets: Free places can be reserved at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/reignite-xiii-production-creative-technologies-tickets-1982494342947

Here's a look at the schedule for the night:

• 17:30 – Arrival and find a seat

• 18:00 – Welcome and introduction

• 18:10 – Presentations by XR Stories, Production Park and CoStar LiveLab

• 19:10 – Screening of BAFTA-nominated films from the Aesthetica Film Festival

• 20:00 until late – Networking, drinks and a live DJ

This Reignite event is more than just a night out; it's a chance to see firsthand how York is shaping the future of the creative industries through technology, collaboration, and sheer brilliant ideas.