The Christians in Leeds: Door times, bag policy and current line-up for the British soul-pop icons

The historic City Varieties Music Hall will play host to a masterclass in vocal harmony this Wednesday (March 18), as The Christians bring their enduring soul-pop sound to the heart of Leeds.

Emerging from Liverpool in the late 1980s, the band became a household name for blending socially conscious lyrics with rich, gospel-influenced arrangements.

Decades later, they remain one of Britain's finest live acts, having sold millions of records and achieved a string of Top 30 hits that defined an era of sophisticated UK pop.

Leeds Heritage Theatres describes the group as one of the UK’s most influential bands, and their live shows continue to sell out nationwide. Led by the unmistakable voice of Garry Christian, the night promises an intimate journey through their chart-topping catalogue.

Fans can expect the lush vocal arrangements that made songs like ‘Ideal World’ and ‘Forgotten Town’ staples of the British airwaves.

What time are the doors opening for The Christians in Leeds?

Doors for the event are scheduled to open at 7pm, with the performance expected to begin around 7:30pm.

The venue operates with an 11pm curfew.

Due to the historic nature of the City Varieties, fans are encouraged to be in their seats early as shows often start promptly.

What is the bag policy for City Varieties Music Hall?

The City Varieties Music Hall operates a strict security policy to ensure the safety and comfort of all visitors within its historic auditorium.

For the safety of the audience, bag checks are carried out on entry at all Leeds Heritage Theatres venues, and due to the intimate layout and limited space of the building, any bags larger than a standard handbag are not permitted inside the auditorium.

It is important to note that the venue does not have an on-site cloakroom or storage area for excess luggage, including shopping bags, rucksacks, or suitcases.

Visitors are strongly encouraged to bring only minimal belongings with them, as any oversized items will be refused entry and cannot be stored at the theatre.

What should I bring with me?

You should ensure you have your mobile tickets downloaded and ready on your smartphone, as the theatre relies on digital scanning for admission - first and foremost.

As a predominantly cashless venue, you will also need a valid debit or credit card or a mobile payment device for any purchases at the bar or merchandise stands.

Given the intimate nature of the seating and the strict bag policy, you should only bring a small handbag or a compact crossbody bag that contains your essentials, such as a valid ID for ‘Challenge 25’ age verification.

What should I leave at home?

You should also leave any outside food, snacks, or refreshments at home, as the theatre maintains a policy that all refreshments must be purchased on-site; additionally, the City Varieties is a strictly nut-free venue, so no nut products should be brought onto the premises.

Beyond standard venue rules, illegal or dangerous items are strictly prohibited and will be confiscated by security. This includes all forms of drugs, including so-called ‘legal’ highs, as well as laser pointers and any items that could be deemed offensive or potentially used as a weapon.

While any alcohol brought from outside will be confiscated and returned after the show, it is simpler to leave it behind.

Finally, professional recording equipment and cameras with detachable lenses are not permitted, and the use of e-cigarettes or vapes is prohibited throughout the building.

Are there any tickets left for The Christians in Leeds?

Tickets are still available for both the Circle and Upper levels as well as the Stalls, though availability is becoming limited.

For those looking for the best view in the Circle and Upper areas, Price Band A tickets are currently listed at £39.00, while Price Band B seats in the same sections are available for £36.00.

Downstairs in the Stalls, remaining seats are consistently priced at £36.00 under Price Band B.

The venue also offers dedicated Wheelchair Spaces and Essential Companion tickets, both priced at £36.00, to ensure the historic music hall remains accessible for all fans.

What is the band’s current line-up while on tour?

The Christians’ line-up for their 2026 tour remains anchored by the unmistakable soul of founding member Garry Christian, supported by a group of musicians who - despite being described by Garry as "relative newcomers" - have mostly been with the band for over 20 years.

The current touring band consists of:

• Garry Christian: Lead Vocals
• Joey Ankrah: Lead Guitar / Vocals
• Neil Griffiths: Acoustic Guitar / Vocals
• Mike Triggs: Keyboards
• Bobby Kewley: Bass / Vocals
• Lionel Duke: Drums (The powerhouse behind the kit for the 2026 dates, following his return to the stage)

This lineup is widely regarded as one of the band's strongest, particularly noted for the ‘superb’ vocal interplay between Garry and Joey Ankrah, which helps recreate those intricate, multi-layered harmonies that made their multi-platinum debut so iconic.