1. Let’s do the Time Warp at Opera House 

This week, from 23 to 28 January, Manchester Opera House welcomes a fan-favourite horror-comedy musical. The Richard O’Brien cult-classic The Rocky Horror Picture Show returns to the city as part of a worldwide tour, directed by Christopher Luscombe. Rock out to timeless classics including “Time Warp” and “Hot Patootie”. Tickets available from £13. 

2. Watch a nostalgic performance at Oldham Library 

An emotional story of friendship, love and missed opportunities will take to the stage this Wednesday, 24 January, at the Oldham Library. Part of the series of events live@thelibrary, Love Letters is a tragicomedy by Romiley Little Theatre, where a romantic friendship blossoms from a simple thank you note to last for decades. Tickets for the play start from £6. 

3. Take a fitness class with Joe Wicks in the new Aviva Studios 

Aviva Studios kicks off the new year with a new fitness experience designed to get the city moving. This weekend, 26 to 28 January, celebrity fitness coach Joe Wicks leads Move Manchester, a series of fitness and self-care activities that will get you energised for the week ahead. You can also try relaxing activities, including meditation and yoga or live cooking demos with special guests. Alongside the main events, you’ll find a programme of free activities for everyone. 

4. This painting exhibition will have you travel through space and time 

The first solo exhibition by Sheffield-based artist Kate Jacob opens at Mura Ma, in Stockport, this Friday, 26 January. Step in the gallery and discover How to Knit a Nebula, an “accidental and playful” work that has been carefully considered and constructed. The contrasting pastels, neons and greys merge together in lines and patterns to bring abstract ideas to life. The stunning exhibition will be on until 10 February 2024. 

5. Meet Laika, the adventurous dog astronaut 

A heartwarming retelling of the story of the first dog in space comes to Z-Arts this Saturday, 27 August. Laika The Space Dog brings you along as she journeys through space in an epic adventure, including an incredible soundtrack and a few surprises along the way. This spectacular puppetry show for the whole family also includes a meet and greet with puppet Laika herself and a puppet making workshop. Tickets start from £9.50 with two shows running at 11AM and 2PM.