Steven Frayne (Dynamo) Talks Bradford, UK City of Culture in Latest Episode of 'Routes'

Bradford street performer to global sensation, Steven Frayne, has been wowing audiences for years as his iconic Dynamo persona. Now, the magician is stepping into a new era of his career with his upcoming show, "Up Close & Magical," a highly intimate performance about connection that aims to prove to audiences that magic isn’t just to be performed but to be experienced.

Chatting to Clara Amfo on Routes from LNER, Steven shares how growing up in Bradford, 2025’s UK City of Culture, shaped his resilience. He talks about his early days performing on the streets and his evolution from busking to performing for royalty, celebrities, and audiences around the world.

“I wouldn’t be the person I am today if it weren’t for where I come from,” said Dynamo. “Bradford gave me a unique perspective that fuels my drive and fearlessness.”

His journey has been shaped by travels and experiences around the world. From couch-surfing in London with only a pound in his pocket, to finding inspiration in places like New Orleans and Mexico’s Day of the Dead festival, Steven has always sought deeper connections with culture.

"I’ve been fortunate enough to travel the world, but I’ve never forgotten where I came from," he says. "Now, I want to showcase magic in a way that honours the places and people that shaped me."

In addition to his early struggles, the magician has battled severe health issues, including Crohn’s disease, which forced him to step away from performing for a time. During this break, he used his time for deep self-reflection and re-evaluated his life, emerging with a renewed sense of purpose. His latest work reflects this transformation, as he focuses not just on his own illusions but on celebrating the magic in everyday people—community heroes, charity workers, and others who inspire him.

“Magic isn’t just in tricks—it’s in people, connections, and life itself. I want to inspire others to find their own magic,” Dynamo shared.

Dan Bates, Executive Director of Bradford 2025 said: “Steven Frayne is hugely proud of his roots and his grit and determination combined with warmth and humour is Bradford through and through. He is a wonderful advocate for this district – kicking off our year of culture in style performing in front of 20,000 people at our opening event ‘RISE’. I’m sure his incredible story will make for a fascinating listen, a great choice by LNER – also proud supporters of Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture – for its moving and insightful Routes podcast. I hope it will inspire people to visit Bradford this year and experience a little of its ‘magic’ for themselves!”

About Routes from LNER

Routes with Clara Amfo is a travel and lifestyle podcast from LNER, blending travel-inspired stories with unique insights from some of the most fascinating voices in music, culture, and entertainment.

🎙️ Listen to the full episode on all major podcast platforms or onboard LNER trains—simply scan the QR code on the back of your seat to tune in.