Ignite your passion for the arts

Manchester's Theatre Scene

The Palace Theatre Manchester

Manchester's iconic Palace Theatre on Oxford Street boasts a rich history dating back to its 1891 opening. Originally a concert hall, it quickly became a favourite for music hall and variety acts. True legends of the entertainment world, like Marie Lloyd and Charlie Chaplin, captivated audiences on this very stage.

The Palace transitioned seamlessly into a full-fledged theatre, continuing to host top talent across a wide variety of genres. Its architectural charm, with intricate details and classic theatrical ambience, adds to the charm.

Exciting Upcoming Shows

  • Hairspray
  • 101 Dalmatians
  • Wicked
  • Grease

Convenient Location

Located on Oxford Street, the Palace Theatre is a short 15-minute walk or easily accessible by bus or taxi from Manchester235.

Manchester Opera House

Step into the grandeur of the Manchester Opera House, a stunning Edwardian theatre built in 1912. From its origins as an opera house to its embrace of variety shows and musicals, this venue has seen a century of captivating performances. With its beautifully preserved historic charm and modern upgrades, the Opera House offers a unique theatrical experience.

Diverse and Exciting Lineup

The Manchester Opera House stages a thrilling array of events:

  • Romeo & Juliet
  • Elvis Costello & Steve Nieve
  • Burlesque The Musical

Explore Further

After the show, join us at Manchester235, located within a short 5-minute walk away. It's the perfect way to extend your evening.

HOME Theatre Manchester

HOME Theatre Manchester, a vibrant hub of contemporary arts, opened its doors in 2015. This modern complex features theatres, cinemas, and exhibition spaces. HOME celebrates a diverse range of artistic forms, pushing the boundaries of theatre, film, and visual art.

Experience the Unexpected

HOME is a place where you can discover groundbreaking work and thought-provoking experiences. Whether you're drawn to independent films, innovative theatrical productions, or challenging visual art exhibitions, HOME delivers an exciting artistic experience.

Conveniently Connected

HOME is conveniently located near Manchester235 only a 15-minute walk or a short tram or bus ride away.

Hope Mill Theatre

Nestled in a converted cotton mill, Hope Mill Theatre offers an intimate and atmospheric theatre experience. This award-winning venue, established in 2015, is renowned for its cutting-edge productions and championing of rising theatrical talent. Its industrial backdrop lends a raw, atmospheric quality to every performance.

Upcoming Performances

  • The Taming Of The Shrew
  • Judy and Liza
  • Dido & Aeneas and Orfeo ed Euridice

Location & Accessibility

Located in the Ancoats district, Hope Mill Theatre is only a 20-minute walk from central Manchester or easily accessible by taxi or bus.

Contact Theatre

With its distinctive architecture, Contact Theatre stands as a powerful symbol of youth arts engagement. This vibrant venue presents an electrifying blend of theatre, dance, and spoken word performances. Since its founding in 1972, Contact Theatre has empowered young people through the arts, providing a platform for bold and innovative work that reflects the pulse of the next generation.

Experience the Energy

Explore what's happening at Contact Theatre:

  • SOFIE HAGEN: WILL I EVER HAVE SEX AGAIN?

Convenient Location

Located on Manchester's Oxford Road, Contact Theatre is an easy 20-minute walk or 10-minute bus ride from James Martin restaurant.

Aviva Studios

Located on Water Street, Aviva Studios is the home of Factory International, an innovative arts venue dedicated to groundbreaking theatre and performing arts. This dynamic space promotes artistic innovation, serving as a hub for creative collaborations and highlighting captivating events.

Exciting Upcoming Performances

Discover the thrilling shows coming to Aviva Studios:

  • HOUSE OF MCR
  • SWEET DREAMS

Conveniently Located

A 5-min walk from Manchester235, Aviva Studios is easily accessible on foot or by using nearby public transportation options.

Royal Exchange Theatr

Experience the magic of the Royal Exchange Theatre, a unique space where performances unfold in-the-round within a beautifully restored former cotton exchange. Founded in 1976, this theatre is celebrated for its innovative productions that breathe new life into classic plays and debut exciting new works.

Upcoming Performances

Don't miss these exciting shows at the Royal Exchange:

  • The Importance of Being Earnest

Central Location

The Royal Exchange is conveniently located a 10-minute walk from the casino.

The Dancehouse

Discover The Dancehouse, a performing arts venue with a rich history. Originally built in 1930 as a dance academy, this vibrant space on Oxford Road now showcases a diverse range of events – from captivating dance performances to side-splitting comedy and lively music shows.

Diverse and Exciting Lineup

The Dancehouse always has something on offer – check out their website to explore their latest program.

Location & Accessibility

Located on Manchester's Oxford Road, The Dancehouse is a 20-minute walk or a quick bus ride from central locations including Manchester235.

53two

Located on Watson Street, 53two is an independent theatre with a raw, industrial atmosphere. Its mission is to nurture emerging artists and present thought-provoking new plays. Since its founding in 2016, 53two has become an essential space for bold, experimental theatre.

Upcoming at 53two

UNDERMINED

Convenient Location

53two is easily accessible, just across the road from Manchester235.

The Lowry

Located in Salford, a vibrant area just outside Manchester, The Lowry stands as a major cultural destination. Named after beloved artist L.S. Lowry, known for his depictions of industrial landscapes, this multi-arts complex opened in 2000. Its sleek, modern architecture offers stunning waterside views, housing galleries, performance spaces, and a studio theatre.

Theatre, Art & More

The Lowry presents a diverse program across its two theatres: touring West End hits, captivating dance performances, and original productions. Plus, the Lowry galleries display a rotating selection of visual art, frequently featuring connections to L.S. Lowry's legacy.

Easily Accessible

The Lowry is readily accessible from Manchester city centre by a convenient Metrolink tram ride, taxi, or via numerous bus routes.

Exciting Upcoming Events

Here's a taste of what's coming to The Lowry:

  • War Horse
  • BRAVE SPACE
  • SIX

Must-Do's Before & After the Show

Shop, Sip, & Explore

Dive into Manchester's vibrant retail scene, from the bustling Arndale Centre to the Northern Quarter's independent boutiques. Fuel your adventure with a delectable coffee at one of the city's charming cafes.

A Cultural Feast

Enrich your experience with a visit to the acclaimed Manchester Art Gallery or the fascinating Science and Industry Museum. For a deeper dive, a guided walking tour unveils the city's hidden stories.

James Martin Manchester

Indulge in a culinary pre-theatre experience. James Martin Manchester's seasonal menu offers exquisite flavours.

Thrills and Wins at Manchester235

Step into Manchester235's Vegas style casino and feel the excitement of table games and slots. Capture the glamour and share your experience!

Moonlit City Stroll

Unwind with a leisurely walk-through Manchester's vibrant streets. Reflect on the performance, soak up the energy, and discover hidden gems along the way.

Cheers to the Arts!

Celebrate the evening with handcrafted cocktails in the chic Northern Quarter or Spinningfields. Manchester235's Vega Lounge offers a delectable cocktail menu and a stylish ambience – or try your hand at mixing your own during a unique cocktail masterclass!

Discover Manchester's must-visit theatres, each offering a unique experience. Before the curtain rises, explore the city's shops, and museums, or indulge in James Martin Manchester's culinary excellence. After the show, keep the magic alive at Manchester235's thrilling casino, enjoy a scenic stroll, or sip handcrafted cocktails in Manchester's stylish bars. From iconic venues to hidden gems, this guide unlocks the perfect Manchester theatre outing.