From West End to Eccentric
Whether you’re after internationally renowned plays, independent cinema, cutting-edge theatre, West End blockbuster or to see an up and coming band playing at one of the many small and quirky venues, the options are endless.
Drama, contemporary dance, comedy, musical or ballet, Manchester’s vibrant theatre scene guarantees a fantastic time. The intimate Library Theatre Company is something like an institution in Manchester’s culture scene and is renowned for its challenging productions as well as previously unseen plays in the Northwest.
Theatre
Fans of West End productions are in for a treat at the Palace Theatre. It’s the place major touring musicals stop off at when in the city. The Opera House on Quay Street is one of Manchester's biggest venues, hosting opera, ballet, comedy and other musical extravaganzas such.
For cutting-edge theatre head to the Contact Theatre, a modern and unusual space presenting drama, dance, spoken word and urban art for both adults and young people.
The stunning building of The Royal Exchange Theatre which was once the centre of the world’s cotton trade is one of the most unusual theatre spaces and well-respected for its ambitious programmes.
If you’re in Manchester for more than just one night why not go a little bit further and visit The Lowry at the Quays. The building itself is a must-see visitor attraction with its fascinating architecture rising from the regenerated docklands.
The interior is equally impressive with two theatres and studio space for performing arts presenting a full range of drama, opera, ballet, dance, musicals, children's shows, popular music, jazz and folk.
Music
Manchester’s music scene is legendary with artists such as The Bee Gees, The Smiths, Happy Mondays, Oasis and Take That and more recently Elbow, the Ting Tings and Mr Scruff.
To see the biggest names in live entertainment check out MEN Arena’s concert listing which features world-class acts such as Kylie, Justin Timberlake and The Police.
The Bridgewater Hall is one of the cities most renowned music venues and home to the Hallé, the longest established symphony orchestra in Britain found in Manchester in 1858. Concerts range from classical and jazz through to world and popular music.
The Royal Northern College of Music is another major venue for classical, jazz and opera performed by top international professionals as well as the RNCM's acclaimed student ensembles.
Night and Day Café in the Northern Quarter is a more intimate venue with live gigs at almost every night of the week. It’s the place to see up-and coming bands, new talents and established artists.