
Live Music & Theater Guide in Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
1. Manchester Opera House
A historic theatre dating back to 1912 offering a diverse range of West End shows, musicals, and comedy acts.
- Rich History: Boasts an impressive history as a venue for live entertainment since its opening in 1912
- West End Shows: Regularly hosts popular West End productions, providing a taste of London's theatre scene in Manchester
- Venue Capacity: Has a seating capacity of over 2,000, ensuring an immersive experience for all attendees
2. The Lowry
A modern, multi-purpose theatre complex with multiple stages showing a variety of productions and visual arts.
- Versatile Spaces: Offers multiple performance spaces, accommodating different types of shows and events
- Visual Arts Gallery: Features a contemporary art gallery showcasing works by L.S. Lowry and other artists
- Location on Salford Quays: Located in the heart of Salford Quays, providing easy access to shops, restaurants, and waterfront views
3. Palace Theatre
A Grade II listed building offering a mix of music, comedy, and theatre shows in an elegant setting.
- Grade II Listed Building: Preserves the charm and elegance of a historic 1911 venue
- Central Manchester Location: Conveniently located in the city centre, close to shopping areas and other attractions
- Comedy Club: Hosts a popular comedy club featuring established comedians and up-and-coming talent
4. Bridgewater Hall
A world-class concert venue hosting orchestras, choirs, and international soloists for classical music performances.
- Acoustic Excellence: Known for its exceptional acoustics, providing an optimal listening experience
- Home to Manchester Camerata: Serves as the home venue for the Manchester Camerata, one of Europe's finest chamber orchestras
- Variety of Performances: Offers a wide range of classical music performances throughout the year
5. Mancunian Blues Bar
A live music venue specializing in blues and jazz performances, with occasional soul and funk shows.
- Live Music Focus: Dedicated exclusively to live blues, jazz, and associated genres
- Intimate Setting: Features an intimate setting that encourages a close connection between artists and audiences
- Daily Live Music: Offers live music every day, ensuring visitors can enjoy performances throughout their stay
6. Band on the Wall
A legendary venue featuring live music and club nights showcasing a variety of genres, from jazz to electronic music.
- Live Music Legacy: Has a rich history as a music venue dating back to the 1930s
- Diverse Programming: Provides a diverse lineup of live music, DJ sets, and club nights for various musical tastes
- Community Focus: Supports the local arts scene by providing opportunities for emerging artists to perform
7. The Ritz
A Grade II listed Art Deco venue hosting live music events, club nights, and private events.
- Grade II Listed Building: Retains the charm of a 1928 Art Deco building with original features
- Iconic Venue: Known as an iconic venue in Manchester's music scene, having hosted many famous artists
- Diverse Programming: Offers a range of events from live music to club nights, catering to various tastes
8. The Ruby Lounge
A small yet popular venue featuring live music and DJ sets, with an emphasis on indie and rock genres.
- Indie Music Focus: Specializes in showcasing independent and up-and-coming indie and rock artists
- Intimate Setting: Features an intimate setting that creates a close connection between artists and audiences
- Central Manchester Location: Located in the city centre, providing easy access to shops, restaurants, and other attractions
9. Manchester Arena
A large arena hosting major international touring acts, concerts, and family shows.
- Large Venue Capacity: Seats over 21,000 people, making it ideal for large-scale events
- World-Class Sound System: Equipped with a state-of-the-art sound system for optimal audio quality
- Accessibility: Offers accessible seating options and amenities, ensuring all visitors can enjoy the events comfortably
10. Manchester Cathedral Choir
A professional choir performing regular services and concerts at Manchester Cathedral.
- Spiritual Experience: Provides a spiritual experience through its uplifting performances in a sacred setting
- Historic Venue: Performs at Manchester Cathedral, a beautiful and historic building dating back to the 1400s
- Classical Music Performances: Specializes in classical music performances, providing a traditional musical experience
11. The Dancehouse Theatre
A studio theatre offering a mix of dance, theatre, and contemporary performance art.
- Dance Focus: Specializes in showcasing contemporary dance, as well as other artistic forms
- Studio Theatre: Features a smaller, more intimate setting that encourages close engagement between artists and audiences
- Location on Oxford Road: Located along Oxford Road, providing easy access to other cultural attractions in the area
12. The Comedy Store
A comedy club featuring established comedians and up-and-coming talent in a lively setting.
- Comedy Club Focus: Dedicated exclusively to stand-up comedy performances
- Lively Atmosphere: Offers a lively atmosphere with drinks, making it a fun night out for audiences
- Regular Shows: Features regular shows throughout the week, providing ample opportunities to attend performances
13. Contact Theatre
A performance venue showcasing contemporary theatre, dance, and spoken word events with a focus on diversity and accessibility.
- Contemporary Performances: Features contemporary performances that push the boundaries of traditional art forms
- Diversity Focus: Embraces diversity and promotes inclusive storytelling in its programming
- Accessibility: Offers accessible seating options and amenities, ensuring all visitors can enjoy the performances comfortably
14. The King's Arms
A small music venue showcasing up-and-coming artists in a cozy and intimate setting.
- Small Venue Focus: Specializes in hosting small, up-and-coming acts in an intimate environment
- Intimate Setting: Features a cozy and inviting setting that encourages close engagement between artists and audiences
- Central Manchester Location: Located in the city centre, providing easy access to shops, restaurants, and other attractions
15. The Castle Hotel
A pub offering live music performances, trivia nights, and occasional comedy shows.
- Live Music Focus: Features live music performances across various genres
- Pub Atmosphere: Offers a traditional pub atmosphere with drinks and food available
- Central Manchester Location: Located in the city centre, providing easy access to shops, restaurants, and other attractions