A group of Bradford students are organising a major arts weekend at the Priestley Centre to help resurrect its use as a film theatre.

And the five students have clinched funding from the national Film Council for the event, which will combine film screenings with music, dance and drama performances.

Bradford's Capital of Culture bid team is backing the project and has allowed the students to use official the Bradford 2008 logo on its promotional literature.

And Bradford companies have provided sponsorship and food.

The event will feature local artists and performers and a diverse mix of music, theatre, and artwork.

The educational side of the venue will be highlighted through free workshops, demonstrating drama and dance across mixed abilities and ages.

The students decided to get involved with the Priestley after reading about its funding struggle in the Telegraph & Argus.

"We thought it was sad to see it in such financial dire straits," said student Stephen Jones.

"We wanted to do something to promote what it has to offer, particularly the film theatre."

The students, all doing an Electronic Imaging and Media Communications degree, are organising the event as part of a final year assessment.

They approached the Yorkshire Screen Commission - the regional section of the Film Council - and were awarded a £250 grant for cinema screenings at the event.

"We're in negotiations with the Commission to show a series of film shorts," said Stephen.

"Hopefully it will be the starting point for a new wave of film at the Priestley."

The students also clinched £150 in sponsorship from Mumtaz Foods in Bradford, which is also providing refreshments. And talks are under way with Marks and Spencer to provide a buffet.

The arts event, on May 3 and 4, will start with an introductory talk by Priestley Centre chairman Brian Otto, followed by music and comedy.

The students hope to book some of the young comics who took part in recent auditions for Stand Up Britain, a new TV show looking for talent.

There will be music from rock bands Burst Rondo and Optet, the Bradford University Singers and an acoustic session.

Other events on the Friday night include a talk on photography, art exhibitions, and poetry recitals.

On Saturday, May 4, there will be theatre classes, a one-off screening of new animated film Ice Age, and performances by dance group Ascendance and Jazz Impressions.

Liz Rymer, from the Yorkshire Screen Commission (YSC), said: "Bradford is quite rightly known as 'The City of Film' and the Commission is more than happy to support this historic venue. Community venues like the Priestley Centre should be cherished."

Priestley director Stephen Goodfellow said: "We're del-ighted these students have chosen to use the Priestley."

Tickets are available on (01274) 820666 or at www.priestleyartsweekend.org.uk.