What’s on at the Theatre in Manchester this Christmas 2024

Get into the Christmas spirit through the world of theatre and visit one of Greater Manchester’s glorious theatres. With something for everyone, from family favourites, Christmas sing-alongs and brand-new productions, there are plenty of amazing shows to book and see over the holiday period. Some are even running until the new year, so would make a wonderful gift for the theatre-lover in your life.   

This Christmas, the star-studded Love Actually, perhaps one of the most quotable and adored Christmas films around, will be presented live in concert, with a full orchestra playing the score live-to-film. Love Actually In Concert has become an annual festive tradition for many, gathering numerous sold out audiences in previous years. Showing at Bridgewater Hall on 18 December 2024.

The classic Dickens story comes to life with true broadway spectacle in this Musical version and breathes fantastic new life into the classic tale of A Christmas Carol. Visit The Lowry in Salford to see this Christmas classic, running from 6 to 14 December 2024 

Based on the cherished 2003 New Line Cinema hit, Elf - Buddy, a young orphan mistakenly crawls into Santa's bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole. The would-be elf is raised unaware that he is actually a human and has an adventure across New York City. This modern day classic is sure to make everyone embrace their inner elf. After all, the best way to spread Christmas Cheer is singing loud for all to hear! Coming to Palace Theatre between 6 and 17 November 2024.

A true Christmas favourite, beloved comedy classic Home Alone features renowned composer John Williams’ charming and delightful score performed live to picture by the International Film Orchestra. Home Alone is hilarious, heart-warming festive fun for the entire family, coming live in concert to Manchester’s Bridgewater Hall on 29 November 2024.

Fairytale of New York – The Ultimate Irish-Inspired Christmas Concert is coming to Manchester. After three sell out tours, the ultimate Irish-inspired Christmas concert is back with an even bigger production for 2024. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Irish culture as our talented singers, musicians and dancers perform a world class concert featuring all the festive favourites including Driving Home for Christmas, Step Into Christmas, Oh Holy Night and, of course, The Fairytale of New York. Taking centre stage at the Opera House on 26 and 27 November 2024.

Disney’s The Muppet Christmas Carol in Concert Live to Film returns to the Hall this winter, the film screened in full as the musical score is performed live to picture on stage. The film sees The Muppets perform Charles Dickens’ classic holiday tale, with Kermit the Frog playing Bob Cratchit. A classic with a live twist, heading straight to Bridgewater Hall for two showings on 8 December.

Paul McCartney will bring his acclaimed Got Back Tour to the UK this December. Fulfilling his promise to perform in the UK again, following his last Manchester show which was in 2011. Irrefutably one of the most successful singer-songwriters and performers of all time, McCartney is behind the most beloved catalogue in music. Coming to Co-op Live on 14 and 15 December.

You shall go to the ball next Christmas with the spectacular family pantomime Cinderella at Manchester Opera House. Packed with all the traditional pantomime ingredients Manchester audiences expect, Cinderella features laugh-out-loud comedy, stunning scenery, beautiful costumes and plenty of boos and hisses. Comedy superstar Jason Manford will be starring as Prince Charming in this classic pantomime – running from 14 December to 5 Janaury 2025.