Your FREE guide to Manchester unlockmanchester.com
AUTUMN/WINTER EVENTS 2019
MANCHESTER King Street
Open daily from 12pm for
unexpected, ridiculous joy! WHETHER IT’S A BRUNCH SOCIAL WITH A DIFFERENCE, TOASTING FIZZ HOUR, OR A DELICIOUS BITE TO EAT, WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED. Co m e a nd j o i n us a t 98 Kin g St reet f l ig ht c l u b d a r t s.c o m/Man chester @ f l ig ht c l u b m a n chester
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Manchester has felt busier than ever this year. The city centre is drawing growing number of tourists and they are not just interested in our world class football teams! Of course living in Greater Manchester we get a chance to experience this city all year round. The coming Winter season sees the return of many festive highlights such as family favourite pantomimes, Christmas parties and the hugely popular European Christmas Markets throughout the city centre. Manchester is not a city for sitting on its laurels; with yet another successful MIF under its belt be prepared for a season of interesting and thought-provoking events such as a Ceźanne retrospective at The Whitworth and Matisse, Late Works at Gallery Oldham. Grab tickets for Gypsy at the Royal Exchange Theatre or Matthew Bourne’s latest masterpiece The Red Shoes at the Lowry. Looking into 2020 we will see the opening of the new Trafford Metrolink line making it easier to get to and from the United ground and the Imperial War Museum. With its six new stops everyday commuters will benefit too. So grab this guide and use it to pack your Winter full of exciting dates! Nick Coulthurst - Editor Pocket Guide No.11 November 2019 unlockmanchester.com
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In this Issue: 4
ANCOATS Did you know that Ancoats is fast becoming a destination? Discover it with us…
NATIVE MANCHESTER
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Opened recently Native is a hub for Cinema, Good Food, Keep fit, and Accommodation
THE POLICE MUSEUM
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Explore the history of Policing Manchester including vehicles and WW2 bombs
MANCHESTER EVENTS
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Special activities to experience this winter. Festivals, Fairly Tales and Family Fun
EXHIBITIONS & EVENTS
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Explore some of the seasons highlights at museums offering many special exhibitions
THEATRE HIGHLIGHTS
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Our guide to some of the best and family favourite theatre productions in Manchester
MUSICIAL EVENTS
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Fancy some beats or classical events to excite you? Then check our recommendations
LOCAL MARKETS
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Get to know Manchester’s Markets with some amazing stallholders and products 3
Ancoats & Islington Wharf From Gruel to Cool - A Galaxy of Stars
In 2015, Rudy’s Pizza caused a foodie buzz when it opened its original restaurant in the regenerating Manchester suburb of Ancoats. Four years later, Simon Martin’s Mana achieves the city’s first Michelin star in over 40 years, firmly putting this thriving area on the UK’s culinary map; a map that has seen immense change over the last 250 years. The first Ancoats’ mills were built in the late 1700s and when the Rochdale Canal was opened in 1804 it accelerated investment into this already busy and thriving environment, driving the population to 56,000 by 1861. The area was a mix of locals, Irish and Italian migrants, there was such a high percentage of the latter, that the area became known as Little Italy. The Manchester Italian Association still hold the annual Festa della Madonna del Rosario procession every July. It was here that ice cream merchant Antonio Valvona created the first wafer cone in the 1890s, replacing the unhygienic glass ‘penny lick’ bowls. 4
Ancoats was producing cotton, glass and even aircraft, at the Avro factory. Walking west you would have heard the drone of the Daily Express printing presses, housed in the impressive 1939 Art Deco building on the corner of the A665 and Oldham Road. It is next-door to the Grade 2 listed pub Crown & Kettle with its ornate ceiling, built in 1734. The area continued to be a hive of manufacturing and activity until after the Second World War when the decline in cotton sales closed many of the mills; and when the slums were cleared in the 1960s the remaining population was dispersed, leaving the once busy streets to crime and deprivation.
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In recent years Ancoats has benefited from major investment, developing these once rundown buildings and back streets into residential districts, sociable spaces and offering new business opportunities. Walking round Ancoats today you will find a very different environment, but where you can still see areas reflecting its history. For example, Victoria Square (known locally as The Dwellings), Manchester’s first municipal housing built in 1889, and Anita Street, formerly Sanitary Street (the first Manchester housing to have running water, a toilet and sink), which is one of the city’s most Instagrammable streets and is a popular film location.
The derelict buildings have been demolished and many of the old mills been converted into modern stylish apartment blocks acknowledging the names of industrialists of the past such as James McConnell, John Kennedy and Richard Fairbairn.
Picture: Cutting Room Square, Ancoats (c) MancWanderer 5
Should you be in the mood for food, coffee or a cheeky glass or three, Cutting Room Square is the place to head to and it is only few minutes’ walk from Piccadilly. Cutting Room Square is at the heart of the Ancoats’ community; surrounded on three sides by bars and restaurants, the fourth finds the impressive Italian Romanesque St. Peter’s Church which is now home to the world famous Hallé Orchestra and its choir. Their newly opened modernist extension completes the development of this large public space; an area proving a very popular destination on bright and sunny days. If the weather is not so sunny, there are plenty of indoor establishments to enjoy. Seven Bro7hers Beerhouse pours beers brewed by the seven McAvoy brothers; or try a glass of Sis4ers Gin made by their four sisters – a large family! 6
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This busy bar serves excellent food, offers beer tastings and hosts weekly social and live music events. The square’s main fare is food and drink. Check out Canto’s delicious Mediterranean tapas from Simon Shaw (Creative Director and Chef Patron of award-winning El Gato Negro) – the latest seasonal menu sees a return for two favourites: mushroom croquetas and succulent pigs’ cheeks. Elnecot, named after the first settlement here in 1212, offers a diverse range of dishes, from Manchester egg to Curry Mile dahl; Blue Eyed Panda serves delicious Chinese classics; Rudy’s Pizza brings a taste of cosmopolitan Napoli; and The Counter House is a vibrant neighbourhood eatery serving the best in comfort classics and health inspired dishes.
Fancy a cocktail? Try unique concoctions at the award-wining Jayne Eyre; go Vietnamese at Nam, or how about something chocolatey at recently opened Cocoa Cabana, where Sarah Gallacher’s cocoa creativity offers a sumptuous display of deliciousness!
Above: Ashton Canal, New Islington Park Islington Wharf, Ancoats (c) MancWanderer 7
The whole area is now beginning to feel like an extension of the much-hailed Northern Quarter, but it has its own charm; exploring the streets you will discover further delights and flavours to excite your taste buds. Look out for new openings including the Edinburgh Castle from the team behind Cottonopolis, and Blossom Street Social from wine merchants Hanging Ditch. Visit the Royal Mills, Redhill St, to gaze at its huge glass atrium while enjoying coffee and cakes from Ancoats Coffee Co (also now available within Native at Cultureplex). Or try Scrancoats - a rotating pop-up of local street food vendors, held every Thursday at the Ancoats General Store, Great Ancoats St. This road is also developing as a food destination, including Street Urchin, offering some of the best fresh seafood plates in the city. Heading south east from the bustle of the square you will find the calm oasis of New Islington Marina where houseboats are moored up and birds busy themselves. Here too is the recently opened Northern Eudaimonia ice cream and dessert bar; Pollen Bakery serving fresh bread and food; and Cask offering a wide range of great beer. No longer the deprived area of the 1980s, Ancoats is now a thriving hub of the Manchester food scene; a welcoming community of all ages and gaining global recognition. Whether it’s shared barbeques around the marina, the sound of children playing in Manchester’s only city centre primary school, or musicians performing in Cutting Room Square, Ancoats has changed beyond all recognition. It once more resonates to the sound of daily life and people enjoying this hidden Manchester gem.
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“Vertigo is aimed at all people who are conscious about their meat consumption, not necessarily just vegans� Vertigo's entirely plant-based menu serves up big bowls of stews and curries, hearty salads, smoothies and even super tasty breakfasts. Specialising in hot lunches and evening meals try our Persian-style aubergine stew with sumac kale crisps and rice, or the Moroccan apricot tagine served with side dishes of a falafel and hummus.
Breakfasts are repleted with waffles with berry compote and yoghurt, vanilla porridge with stewed plums and granola or our classic breakfast with offerings such as 'sausage' sandwiches and avocado on toast. Vertigo sources it ingredients from local suppliers; with coffee from ManCoCo, beers by First Chop and bread from the artisan baker Trove. Open 7 days a week (check website for full details)
18 Cross Street, Manchester M2 7AE
11 Jack Rosenthal St, Manchester M15 4RA
vertigo.co.uk - @vertigomcr
NATIVE MANCHESTER
Set in the iconic Ducie Street Warehouse near Manchester Piccadilly station, newly opened Native Manchester transforms the way you stay. Native bridges the gap between home and hotel. Offering everything a boutique hotel does, with the space, freedom and flexibility of an apartment. When you stay with Native, you don’t just get award winning design, central locations or stunning architecture, you get comfort, convenience, and everything you need to live – from fully equipped kitchens to in-apartment laundry. And named the best hotel in the North of England 2019 by the Sunday Times. They’ve restored every inch of this industrial icon, embracing each original beam and brick throughout their spectacular, spacious apartments. 10
All the apartments back onto a colossal internal atrium, where you can see the powderblue wrought iron girders permeate the building in all their glory. And with their neighbours CULTUREPLEX and BLOK on the ground floor they’ve got you covered with dining, drinks, meeting and event spaces, mini cinema and fitness studios. Originally built in 1867 to store cotton bails from the US before they were sent to the mills of London, Ducie Street Warehouse was one of four iconic railway warehouses from Manchester’s industrial era – and the only one still standing.
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Embracing local communities is central to everything Native does. They collaborated closely with architects Archer Humphryes (Chiltern Firehouse, The Standard) to understand the building’s structure and intricate features. They carefully enhanced the space – letting light and life in, highlighting its monumental scale, and exposing its industrial beauty. The result? A stunning, luxury aparthotel at the heart of one of the UK’s most vibrant cities.
Starting from studios to palatial two bedroom duplex penthouse apartments, Native’s got you covered for a trip to Manchester, whether you’re here for a day, or a month. Say hello to the new way to stay. Picture: Atrim, Native Manchester 51 Ducie Street, Manchester M1 2TP 11
CULTUREPLEX
CULTUREPLEX is a new place to hang out, meet pals, watch a film and hear good music, or listen to a talk, take a class, engage in considered discussion and debate, get some work done. There’s room for everyone to follow their own path; engage or unwind, socialise, graze, dine and drink. There are three main CULTUREPLEX areas where you can graze, dine and drink. BISTROTHEQUE (the northern counterpart to its 15-year-old east London sister) offers uncomplicated good food, drink and service with common sense and good taste. Menus by Chef Director Blaine Duffy (of Bistrotheque). The KLATCH is a coffee counter that serves fresh, ‘healthy(ish)’ food and juices by day, and natural wines and craft beer by night. While the LOUNGE is CULTUREPLEX’s central space with relaxed menus and good cocktails (from “HI” to “NO” and “LO’” abvs), and endless spaces to work, socialise and lounge on soft seating, communal tables and benches. 12
Every day you’ll find a range of things happening at CULTUREPLEX: practical sessions like workshops and seminars, alongside moments for reflection and learning, as well as screenings, parties, festival events and relaxed weekend and evening fun. The CULTUREPLEX ‘Mini Cini’ cinema boasts 38 reclining seats, 4K digital projection and surround sound. Manchester’s newest cinema space offers guests a high-spec cinematic experience in ultimate comfort with tickets competitively priced at £8 / £5 concessions.
Picture: BRISTROTHEQUE, Native Manchester Ducie Street, Manchester M1 2TP Right: BLOK, Native Manchester
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BLOK
Renowned for its multidisciplinary approach to fitness and design led aesthetic, BLOK landed in London in 2016, instantly disrupting the studio landscape and quickly becoming the favoured workout for inner city creatives. Fast forward to 2019, BLOK brings its unique fitness experience to their first site outside of London, becoming their third UK location and the first step into national expansion - enter, BLOK Manchester. The 5000 Sqft space holds three multidisciplinary studios, state of the art changing facilities and a large retail area stocked with the latest up and coming brands to break into active wear, alongside BLOK skincare partner, Malin + Goetz. Co-Founder, Reema Stanbury explains “We are drawn to creative hubs and Manchester, especially the Northern Quarter, has a thriving and growing creative community. Our goal has always been to create more than just a gym and for every BLOK site to be a genuine destination�
BLOK is fuelled by the desire to provide sustainable and integrated training - the extensive programme offers Boxing, Dance, Pilates, Yoga, Cardio and Strength & conditioning workouts. Each class is delivered by one of the 50 elite instructors hand selected by BLOK, to ensure world class training is experienced across every single discipline. As well as a diverse range of workouts (25 in total), unique to the BLOK programme are the seven signature classes, BLOKfit, BLOKflex, BLOKsculpt, BLOKbreath, BLOKstrength, BLOKbeat, and BLOKparty. All seven workouts were curated in house by master trainers to provide a unique way to diversify your workout. Start your journey with BLOK Manchester and experience the 14 day unlimited trial - the perfect introduction to the training, the team and the community behind BLOK. 14 Day Trial visit: blokmanchester.com Ducie Street Warehouse, Manchester M1 2TP 13
Manchester Police Museum Whatever the weather, join us at your friendly, local Police Museum!
The Museum was founded in 1981. Funded by Greater Manchester Police, it not only collects and preserves archive material and objects relating to the history of policing in the Greater Manchester area. It also acts as an important resource for community engagement, where visitors can talk to staff and volunteers about policing. GMP Museum holds primary and secondary source information about the history and development Greater Manchester policing. Our archive holdings are a mix of records – both official and personal. A hidden gem in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, Greater Manchester Police Museum is set within an Victorian Police Station. Visitors can explore our original Cells and Charge Office and visit the restored Denton Magistrates Court. Stop by our dressing up box and try on real police uniform before discovering how the Police were formed. On open days our volunteers are available to talk through our exhibits and share tales of life on the beat. GMP Museum is located at 57a Newton Street. Just a short walk from Piccadilly or Victoria Station and Market Street tram stop. We are open for drop in visits every Tuesday between 10.30 - 3.30 (last admission 3.00) and entry is free! During the Manchester school holidays we also open on Thursdays as well. Staff are available Monday – Friday and groups are very welcome by appointment on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. 14
GMP Museum holds primary and secondary source information about the history and development Greater Manchester policing. Our archive holdings are a mix of records – both official and personal. Use of the archive is by appointment only on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays (during term-time) and Fridays. Enquiries must be made by completing the relevant enquiry form here and emailing or posting it to us. We aim to get back to enquiries with an initial response within a fortnight, however this is dependant on our volunteer archive team. If you would like to book a private tour for between 5- 25 people we offer these on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Tours last between one and a half to two hours and are suitable for anyone aged over 6, they are currently free of charge but all donations are gratefully received. Contact the Police Museum web: gmpmuseum.co.uk email: police.museum@gmp.police.uk tweet: @GMPMuseum instagram: @gmpmuseum facebook: Greater Manchester Police Museum
Right: Manchester Day 2019 The Police Museum, 57A Newton St, M1 1ET
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Printwork Events at The Pump Yard The Printworks is a buzzing, entertainment complex located in the heart of Manchester. The City centre hotspot is alive with activity seven days a week be it with early morning gym classes or late night get together’s with friends. Known as one of Manchester’s most iconic venues, it has a rich history as a publishing house. The Printworks now houses a state-of-the-art IMAX cinema, fully equipped gym complete with a 20m swimming pool and sixteen bars and restaurants. Make The Printworks your onestop shop for entertainment in Manchester!
Hits Live with Hattie Pearson
Come and be part of the Manchester success story that is Hits Live Radio. Join Hattie Pearson as she delivers the Biggest Hits Live! 17th November 2.30pm – 6pm Free Admission
Soul on Sunday - Stax of Soul
STAX of SOUL are the original 9 piece function and party band born and bred in Manchester back in 1983. They are ‘The Real Deal’. Dance your feet of to this fabulous live band, plus DJs and raise monies for The Christie Hospital 1st December from Noon Free Admission
Printworks Christmas Orchestra
Experience our 22 piece orchestra playing Christmas and seasonal classics in the pump yard for your entertainment 15th December from Noon Free Admission
27 Withy Grove, Manchester, M4 2BS theprintworks.com | facebook.com/printworksmcr Twitter - @The_Printworks | Instagram - @the_printworks
MANCHESTER EVENTS
Greater Manchester is yet again alive with cultural events such as the sprawling Christmas Markets held across the city centre. For families Winter brings Christmas and maybe the promise of snow. Time to don that warm clothing and explore events such as the Bolton Winter Festival or the Star Gazing experience at Jodrell Bank, in Cheshire. Get ready to enjoy a warming hot-dog, dripping with sauce, onions and Glßhwein! Santa is going to be busy! He’s to found on the East Lancashire Railway, at the Chill Factor and many shops; great for keeping the kids happy as you gift buy. Check out the extraordinary Ice Village and the ice-skating rink both created in Cathedral Gardens, Manchester. This is the season to celebrate, enjoy and reunite with old friends..
ELR - Guided Rail Ale Trail Bolton Street Station, Bury BL9 0EY 23rd November Celebrate everything Lancastrian with this special Rail Ale Trail tour. Join an expert guide as they take you on a journey of discovery through some of the finest Lancashire scenery eastlancsrailway.org.uk @eastlancsrly
Lancashire Weekend Bolton Street Station, Bury BL9 0EY 23rd & 24th November 2019 Come along for some folksy family fun as the ELR plays host to traditional Morris Dancers and a town crier reading out Lancashire Day proclamations. Home cooked hot pot and other local favourites will also be available eastlancsrailway.org.uk @eastlancsrly
The Oldham Open Gallery Oldham, Greaves St, Oldham OL1 1AL until 30th November 2019 The Oldham Open exhibition is back at Gallery Oldham for another year and is open to artists of all ages who live, work or study in Oldham
(c) Jodrell Bank, Cheshire
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galleryoldham.org.uk @galleryoldham
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New York Nights 2019
Manchester Ice Village 2019
Windmill St, Manchester M2 3GX 4th-21st December 2020 This year the intoxicating energy of New York Nights comes to Manchester Central – from the bright lights of Broadway to the fun and fast paced Times Square night life and breath-taking entertainment!
Cathedral Gardens, Corporation St, Manchester M4 3BG until 5th January 2020 With an exciting new Ice Cavern and a brand new Ice Rink! The Ice Tiki Bar – Manchester’s first ever dedicated ICE BAR. Plus the Santa experience – come to the grotto and meet the big man himself
manchesterchristmasparties.co.uk @MancXmasParty
icevillage.co.uk @eastlancsrly
ELR - Santa Specials
A Fairytale Christmas Mansion
Bolton Street Station, Bury BL9 0EY
Tatton Park, Knutsford WA16 6QN
30th November - 24 December (weekends) Start your celebrations in style with a steam train ride with Santa and his team of happy helpers, a Christmas tradition for many in the North West
26th November - 5th January 2020 Enter a magical Christmas Mansion themed with all of your favourite fairy tales and decorated with special lighting and stunning decorations. Seasonal music adds to the festive atmosphere as you work your way through enchanting rooms
eastlancsrailway.org.uk @eastlancsrly
tattonpark.org.uk @tatton_park
Introductory tours of The John Rylands Library
Bolton Winter Festival
John Rylands Library, Deansgate M3 3EH until 30th December 2019 Introductory tours are a chance to learn about the fascinating building of The John Rylands Library and some of its history. Tours take place Wednesday and Friday, 3-3.30pm, are free and there is no need to book
Bolton Town Centre, Victoria Sq, Bolton, BL1 1SA 6th December - 6th January 2020 Bolton’s Winter Festival offers something for all the family from the popular covered ice rink, super fun snow slide, magical Santa’s Grotto and festive artisan markets
library.manchester.ac.uk @UoMLibrary
boltonfoodanddrinkfestival.com @
Manchester Christmas Markets
Telescope Walking Tours
Albert Square, Manchester M2 5PF 8th November - 22nd December 2019 Manchester’s award-winning Christmas Markets 2019 return this winter offering mouth-watering international food, drinks and delicately crafted Yuletide gifts in the heart of our buzzing city
Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre, Macclesfield SK11 9DW until 9th January 2020 Jodrell Bank will now be hosting their popular Telescope Walking Tours daily for 2019 where you can join one of their friendly Explainers as they take you for a stroll around the base of the impressive Lovell Telescope jodrellbank.net @jodrellbank
@mancxmasmarkets
Chill Factor - Santa’s Grotto
Stargazing Night at Jodrell Bank
Chill Factore, 7 Trafford Way, Manchester, M41 7JA Until 24th December Twinkly lights, real snow and a magical grotto can only mean one thing - Santa has come to Chill Factore. Treat all the family to the ultimate Christmas experience with family fun in Mini Moose Land and Snow Park,
Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre, Macclesfield SK11 9DW
chillfactore.com @chill_factore
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17th January & 20th March 2020 A fun-packed evening; enjoy a journey around space in our inflatable Planetarium, be surprised by the exciting experiments in our science show and get hands-on with telescopes and binoculars as you learn to navigate the night sky jodrellbank.net @jodrellbank
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EXHIBITIONS & EVENTS
Greater Manchester is a first-class destination for Galleries, Museums and exhibitions. The city is home to the Manchester Art Gallery, The Whitworth, the Science and Industry Museum and many independent galleries who promote local artists. The Bury Art Museum and Sculpture Centre has regular contemporary art installations, whereas the CCFCA, in the NQ, focuses on China’s rising art stars. The Science and Industry Museum, on Liverpool Road, is always a great day especially for families. Discover how Manchester became the powerhouse of the Industrial Revolution ushering in the modern age. Manchester’s influence in world events doesn’t stop there, learn about the world changing ideas at the People History Museum, in Spinningfields.
LS Lowry: The Art and The Artist The Lowry, Pier 8, Salford Quays, M50 3AZ A permanent display of the best of LS Lowry There are over 400 works in the collection, 57 of which are oil paintings. Alongside the works of art is an archive containing thousands of items ranging from photographs to press cuttings and exhibition catalogues thelowry.com @The_Lowry
Bramhall Hall Guide Tours Hall Rd, Bramhall, Stockport SK7 3NX Every Saturday & Sunday Explore this Jacobean mansion and its exciting history with one of thier expert guides (booking recommended)
stockport.gov.uk @SMBC_Museums
Fly 360 MSI, Liverpool Road, Manchester M3 4FP Open daily Have you ever wanted to fly your own jet? Then take the controls on Fly 360, our hands-on flight simulator. Pitch and roll as though you were really flying, get your adrenaline flowing and perform your own aerobatic display Hamlima Cassell - Manchester Art Gallery
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msimanchester.org.uk @sim_manchester
GET INTO THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT WITH OUR THREE COURSE FESTIVE MENU STARTING FROM £24.95 PER PERSON TO BOOK VBBV@VELVETMANCHESTER.COM 0161 236 9003 2 CANAL STREET, MANCHESTER M1 3HE
Cosgrove Hall: Frame by Frame
The New Art School Rules!
Waterside Centre, 1 Waterside, Sale M33 7ZF
Bury Art Museum & Sculpture Centre, Moss St BL9 0DR until 25th January 2020 The art school is a place where formative notions of creative endeavour are made, it is as much a state of mind as a specific location. High profile designers and image-makers have created a collective visual manifesto, a new set of formative rules for creative practice buryartmuseum.co.uk
until 4th January 2020 The exhibition will break down the most complex Cosgrove Hall series, such as The Wind in the Willows, looking at the finer details of production, with original puppets, costumes, production material and inside stories watersidearts.org @WatersideArts
@BuryArtMuseum
2019 Banner Display
Disrupt? Peterloo and Protest
PHM, Left Bank, Spinnignfields M3 3ER
People’s History Museum, Left Bank M3 3ER
until 5th January 2020 A carefully curated event to reflect key moments of protest in Greater Manchester and across Britain, representing a mix of creatively disobedient ideas and actions along the road to democratic reform, from the 1819 Peterloo Massacre to today
until 23rd February 2020 Telling the story of Peterloo and highlights its relevance today, examining issues within our democracy that people are campaigning for 200 years on
phm.org.uk @phmmcr
phm.org.uk @phmmcr
Halima Cassell: Eclectica–global inspirations
Louise Giovanelli
Manchester Art Gallery, Mosley St M2 3JL until 5th January 2020 Inspired by geometry, architecture, natural forms and foreign travel, she creates deeply carved forms in unglazed ceramic, bronze, stone, wood and cast glass
Manchester Art Gallery, Mosley St M2 3JL until 19th April 2020 New paintings by Giovanelli are shown alongside rarely-seen early Renaissance panel paintings from the collection of Manchester Art Gallery, as well as a selection of contemporary works by Victor Man and Mark Manders
manchesterartgallery.org @mcrartgallery
manchesterartgallery.org @mcrartgallery
The Sun
Cézanne at the Whitworth
SIM, Liverpool Road, Manchester M3 4FP until 5th January 2020
The Whitworth, Oxford Road, Manchester M15 6ER until 1st March 2020 Celebrating an extraordinary collection of drawings and prints by Paul Cézanne (1839–1906) that has been gifted and placed on long-term loan to the Whitworth by gallerist, collector, author and publisher Karsten Schubert
From ancient myths to health and wellbeing, solar power and more, The Sun takes a closer look at our ever-changing relationship with our closest star
scienceandindustrymuseum.org.uk @sim_manchester
whitworth.manchester.ac.uk @whitworthart
Cui Jie
Matisse: Drawing with Scissors, Late Works 1950-54
CCFCA, 13 Thomas St, Manchester M4 1EU until 19th January 2020 Shanghai based artist Cui Jie is best known for her paintings that fuse together modern and imaginary architectural forms. Described by the Wall Street Journal as one of ‘China’s Rising Art Stars’
Gallery Oldham, Greaves St, Oldham OL1 1AL 21st March - 16th May 2020 This exhibition presents an overview of the spectacular last works of the French artist Henri Matisse. The paper cut-outs that Matisse made during the last years of his life are among his most vibrant and joyous creation
cfcca.org.uk @CFCCA_UK
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galleryoldham.org.uk @galleryoldham
THEATRE HIGHLIGHTS
Being part of an audience is an exciting feeling and Manchester certainly has a wealth of theatres offering very diverse productions for your enjoyment. Independent theatres such as Hope Mill or the Peer Hat, in the NQ, are breaking grounds for new works which regularly head to the big lights of London and onwards. This coming season sees some interesting and very exciting productions for us all to enjoy. Christmas is certainly a time for children and families. Get tickets for productions of Snowbabies, Snow White and Treasure Island there is plenty to keep them busy. Join Barbara Nice for her Festive Special, laugh your socks at ComedySportz and Gypsy, at the Royal Exchange, should be memorable. We recommend you get booking today!
Eddie Izzard: Wunderbar O2 Apollo, Stockport Rd, Manchester M12 6AP 8th-10th November 2019 Five years after his last comedy tour FORCE MAJEURE made comedy history having played 45 countries including all 50 US States AND in four languages, making it the most extensive comedy show ever academymusicgroup.com @o2apollomanc
Ardal O’Hanlon - The Showing Off Must Go On The Lowry, Pier 8, Salford Quays, M50 3AZ 17th November 2019 Ardal O’Hanlon, star of Death in Paradise, Father Ted and My Hero (BBC), continues to tour his acclaimed stand-up shows worldwide. Because he loves it. And it’s a compulsion. And the world is a funny place thelowry.com @The_Lowry
Peppa Pig’s Best Day Ever Opera House, Quay St, Manchester M3 3HP 16th & 17th November 2019 Peppa Pig is excited to be going on a special day out with George, Mummy Pig and Daddy Pig - it’s going to be her best day ever!
The Red Shoes - (c) Johan Persson
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atgtickets.com @atgtickets
unlockmanchester.com | @unlockmcr
My Favorite Murder Live
SIX
O2 Apollo, Stockport Rd, Manchester M12 6AP 22nd November 2019 My Favorite Murder is the hit true crime comedy podcast hosted by Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark. Their 2019 joint memoir, Stay Sexy and Don’t Get Murdered recently debuted in the #1 spot on the New York Times Best Sellers List
The Lowry, Pier 8, Salford Quays, M50 3AZ 3rd-5th December 19 & 7th-11th January 2020 Divorced, beheaded, died, divorced, beheaded, survived. All this time they’ve been just one word in a stupid rhyme, so they picked up a pen and a microphone and history’s about to get overthrown
academymusicgroup.com @o2apollomanc
thelowry.com @The_Lowry
Calamity
Peter Pan Goes Wrong
The Kings Arms, Bloom St, Salford M3 6AN 26th - 30th November 2019 In a locked room, in a flat above the city, two complete strangers struggle to comprehend what the other “Had in mind”. As a blurry friday night crawls towards an agonising dawn it becomes clear that one man’s dreamland may be another man’s dystopia kingsarmssalford.com
The Lowry, Pier 8, Salford Quays, M50 3AZ 3rd-7th December 2019 Following their multi award-winning success with The Play That Goes Wrong and The Comedy About A Bank Robbery, Mischief Theatre return with their riotous spin on a timeless classic, the West End smash hit Peter Pan Goes Wrong thelowry.com @The_Lowry
@kingssalford
I’m a Phoenix, Bitch
Rupaul’s Drag Race Live
HOME, 2 Tony Wilson Place, Manchester M15 4FN
Palace Theater, Oxford St, Manchester M1 6FT 7th December 2019 RuPaul’s Drag Race is taking the most sickening talent contest in the world across the pond for the first ever UK Season of the hit TV show. Live on stage hosted by Drag Queen Extraordinaire Alyssa Edwards!
26th-30th November 2019 Combining personal stories with epic film, soundscapes and ethereal music, Bryony creates a powerful, dark and joyful work about motherhood, heartbreak and finding inner strength homemcr.org @home_mcr
atgtickets.com @atgtickets
Matthew Bourne’s The Red Shoes
Barbara Nice: Festive Special
The Lowry, Pier 8, Salford Quays, M50 3AZ
Waterside Centre, 1 Waterside, Sale M33 7ZF 15th December 2019 Fresh from Britain’s Got Talent, Barbara Nice is back by popular demand with her annual festive shindig complete with raffle, tombola and mince pies. Join her in a bumper bundle selection box of seasonal fun with all the trimmings
26th-30th November 2019 The Red Shoes is a tale of obsession, possession and one girl’s dream to be the greatest dancer in the world. Victoria Page lives to dance but her ambitions become a battleground between the two men who inspire her passion thelowry.com @The_Lowry
watersidearts.org @WatersideArts
The Secret Policeman’s Tour
Babel Station Presents: A Silent Night
Palace Theater, Oxford St, Manchester M1 6FT 3rd December 2019 In cahoots with the sizzling Deborah Frances-White (Guilty Feminist), Amnesty International’s revered Secret Policeman’s Tour comes to Manchester for its third and final stop this year
The Peer Hat, 14 Faraday St, M1 1BE 15th December 2019 Furrowed Brow, The Red Stains and Babel Station explore the spiritual aspects of Christmas. Free entry, with donations towards costs and any profit will be split equally between all performers. For the sake of honest art and having a laugh
atgtickets.com @atgtickets
thepeerhat.co.uk @the_peer_hat
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Snowbabies
Snow White
The Lowry, Pier 8, Salford Quays, M50 3AZ 17th-24th December 2019 From the team behind Aleena’s Garden comes a brand-new Christmas adventure especially for the youngest members of your family. Join Mrs Claus, as she takes you on a special Christmas journey, perfect for children aged 0-24 months
Opera House, Quay St, Manchester M3 3HP 6th-29th December 2019 Fresh from the ballroom, Craig Revel Horwood will dazzle in an array of stunning dance routines and show Manchester his real mettle as he tries to outwit the fair Snow White and prove to the world that he is the fairest of them all
thelowry.com @The_Lowry
atgtickets.com @atgtickets
Treasure Island
Dr Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas!
Octagon Theatre, Civic Centre, Bolton BL1 1US 8th-27th December 2019 The classic tale of buccaneers and buried gold will be sailing into Bolton this Christmas in a rip-roaring new stage adaptation of Treasure Island
The Lowry, Pier 8, Salford Quays, M50 3AZ 10th December - 5th January 2020 The Grinch discovers there’s more to Christmas than he bargained for in this heart-warming and hilarious musical, based on Dr. Seuss’ hugely popular bestselling books made famous by the film adaptions
octagonbolton.co.uk @octagontheatre
thelowry.com @The_Lowry
The Slightly Annoying Elephant
Jack and the Beanstalk
HOME, 2 Tony Wilson Place, Manchester M15 4FN
Oldham Coliseum, Fairbottom St, Oldham OL1 3SW
5th - 29th December 2019 What’s big, blue, bossy, and turns up uninvited? A slightly annoying elephant, of course! One day Sam gets a very big surprise as a tired, hungry, antiqueloving, cycling enthusiast elephant turns up on his doorstep
16th November - 11th January 2020 Poor young lad Jack sells his cow for magic beans, much to the dismay of his mother. But when the beans grow into a gigantic beanstalk Jack sets off for an adventure in the magical land above the clouds
homemcr.org @home_mcr
coliseum.org.uk @OldhamColiseum
Mr Poppers Penguins
Gypsy
Waterside Centre, 1 Waterside, Sale M33 7ZF
Royal Exchange Theatre, St Ann’s Square M2 7DH 30th November - 25th January 2020 Louise and June should be in school when Momma Rose shoves them under the unforgiving vaudeville spotlights. Their cutie-pie act strikes gold – but when a grown-up Louise goes solo, the public wants more than just song and dance. Dare she go all the way?
26th November - 31st December 2019 Based on the book by Richard & Florence Atwater. Painter and decorator by day, Mr Popper spends his time dreaming of Antarctic adventures. He is astounded when one day a packing crate arrives on his doorstep and a penguin waddles out! watersidearts.org @WatersideArts
royalexchange.co.uk @rxtheatre
The Astonishing Times of Timothy Cratchit
ComedySportz
Hope Mill Theatre, Pollard St, Manchester M4 7JA 22nd November - 29th December 2019 Telling the tale of a young man, Timothy, who sets out to find his place in an expanding and volatile world and follows his plight from the home of his benefactor, Ebenezer Scrooge
Waterside Centre, 1 Waterside, Sale M33 7ZF
hopemilltheatre.co.uk @hopemilltheatr1
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Monthly - Check Website ComedySportz is an all ages, all improvised show where two teams battle it out for laughs as players create quick-witted sketches, scenes and songs from whatever suggestions are thrown at them by the audience watersideartscentre.co.uk @WatersideArts
MUSIC EVENTS
The Manchester music scene continues to go from strength to strength with exciting bands, artists and music events through-out the year. Here we have tried to round-up some of the most interesting events this coming season. For the clubbers ‘The Wharehouse Project’ has returned in its new home at the Mayfield Depot. Interested in finding out more about the Music Industry? Then ‘Off the Record’ is for you it also presents many excellent live performances in venues across the city. Totally different is the Organ Coffee Morning at The Stockport Plaza and for a sound of Christmas The Rat Pack are back. Celebrate the new year at Matt & Phreds or be enthralled by the New Years Day Viennese Gala at the Bridgewater Hall.
Warehouse Project 2019 Mayfield Depot, Baring St, Manchester M1 2QF until 1st January 2020 The Depot, abandoned since 1960, is in 2019 a cavernous new setting for The Warehouse Project to call home located directly facing Picadilly Train Station
thewarehouseproject.com @WHP_Mcr
Craig Charles Funk & Soul Club Band on the Wall, 25 Swan St M4 5JZ Monthly - Check Website It’s a big one! We’re taking the flavoursome funk far into the night as the Craig Charles Funk & Soul Club returns to Band on the Wall with acclaimed DJ, actor, presenter and funkster about town Craig Charles bandonthewall.org @bandonthewall
Off the Record Festival Venues across Manchester 14th & 15th November 2019 Off The Record is a multi-venue live music event and conference in the heart of Manchester’s Northern Quarter, bringing over 40 emerging artists to 7 NQ venues Craig Charles - Funk & Soul Show
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otrmcr.co.uk @otrmcr
unlockmanchester.com | @unlockmcr
Academy In The UK
Organ Coffee Morning
Manchester Academy, Oxford Rd, Manchester M13 9PR 23rd November 2019 Academy In The UK’ is the ultimate punk tribute night. Transport yourself back to the Seventies with the anarchy of The Sex Pistols Experience, The Complete Clash, Bootleg Blondie plus The Ramonas, an all-girl tribute to The Ramones
Stockport Plaza, Mersey Sq, Stockport SK1 1SP
manchesteracademy.net @MancAcademy
16th November 2019 Join the Plaza for this free to attend concert from 10am till 1pm and relax in the wonderful surroundings of Stockport’s Art Deco gem
stockportplaza.co.uk @stockportplaza1
Night & Day 28th Birthday Party
The Rat Pack at Christmas
Night & Day, 26 Oldham St, Manchester M1 1JN
The Bridgewater Hall, Lower Mosley St M2 3WS 3rd December 2019 Back by popular demand and following sell-out performances across the globe, The Definitive Rat Pack brings you an evening of festive classics, including White Christmas, Baby It’s Cold Outside, The Christmas Song and Let It Snow
30th November 2019 An evening of synth wielding warlocks, Fakeloric travelogues, political resistance & Femme Delinquents with the Eccentronic Research Council featuring Maxine Peake nightnday.org @nightanddaycafe
bridgewater-hall.co.uk @BridgewaterHall
A Tribute To Manchester 2019
Jools Holland & His Rhythm & Blues Orchestra
Manchester Academy, Oxford Rd, Manchester M13 9PR
O2 Apollo, Stockport Rd, Manchester M12 6AP
6th December 2019 A night for the Manchester music fan; featuring The Clone Roses, Oasish, The Smiths Ltd, The James Experience and DJ Clint Boon
22nd December 2019 Musical virtuoso Jools Holland and his distinguished Rhythm & Blues Orchestra have announced dates and special guests for their well-renowned autumn/ winter UK tour
manchesteracademy.net @MancAcademy
academymusicgroup.com @o2apollomanc
The Hallé: The Snowman
A Matt & Phreds New Year
The Bridgewater Hall, Lower Mosley St M2 3WS 20th & 23rd December 2019
64 Tib Street, Northern Quarter M4 1LG 31st December 2019
Bring the whole family to the Hallé’s screening of Raymond Briggs’ classic animated film, The Snowman. It is accompanied by the Hallé performing Howard Blake’s magical score live, including a chorister singing Walking in the Air bridgewater-hall.co.uk @BridgewaterHall
This New Year’s Eve we’re bringing in 2020 with the sounds of Motown with one of the North’s powerhouse Soul and Motown bands, SOUL UNIT
Chetham’s School of Music Concerts
New Year’s Day Viennese Gala
Chetham’s School of Music, Long Millgate M3 1SB
The Bridgewater Hall, Lower Mosley St M2 3WS
until 31st December 2019 In September ‘69, a small musical revolution took place. A new intake of students was admitted to Chetham’s by musical audition, laying the foundations for a specialist music school in Manchester
1st January 2020 Jeni Bern joins the Camerata to help blow away the cobwebs and start your New Year in the right way with the Camerata’s annual Viennese Gala
chethamsschoolofmusic.com @Chethams
mattandphreds.com @mattandphreds
bridgewater-hall.co.uk @BridgewaterHall
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MANCHESTER MARKETS
Markets in Greater Manchester offer visitors the chance to buy everything from household consumables to desirable antiques and many are easy to reach via public transport. Bury Market has been winning awards for many years and is one of Manchester largest markets. Make time to visit the Fish-Hall on market day, it is a hive of busy and noisy traders promoting their wares. Stockports’ Vintage Market, held in the ‘glass umbrella’ is a great place to discover amazing pieces ideal for finding that gift for the person who has everything! While Piccadilly Gardens Food Market is always popular, good for new things to try for lunch and of course it spills out across the city centre when the Christmas Market opens. Find out where, when and what in our local market guide.
Manchester Christmas Markets Albert Square, Manchester M2 5PF 8th November - 22nd December 2019 Manchester’s award-winning Christmas Markets 2019 return this winter offering mouth-watering international food, drinks and delicately crafted Yuletide gifts in the heart of our buzzing city
@mancxmasmarkets
Altrincham Market Greenwood Street, WA14 1SA Tuesday - Sunday Weekly Altringham Market features traditional favourites. Quality food traders from fresh fish to fruit & veg, from regional cheese to prime meat cuts, from crafters to jewellers. Weekend markets showcase the talent, skill, passion and creativity of the finest traders in the North West altrinchammarket.co.uk @altrinchammkt
Bolton Artisan Market Heaton Fold Garden Ctr, Overdale Dr BL1 5BU 3rd Sunday Monthly (February-December) Visitors will find an exciting range of high quality and locally sourced food, drink and crafts from specialist producers and suppliers. There is free parking on site as well as a gift shop and self-service cafe. The market is held under cover in bad weather Manchester Christmas Markets
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heatonfold.co.uk @BoltonArtisan
Bury Market
The Clog Market
The Fish Market, Murray Rd, Bury BL9 0BJ Monday - Saturday Bury’s World Famous Market is a multi-award winning market and was voted Best Market Attraction in 2015. It’s one of the most popular shopping destinations in the north of England attracting thousands of visitors each week with over 370 stalls drawing in the crowds burymarket.com
Town Square, Rawtenstall 1st Sunday (April-October) Featuring vintage, vintage industrial, collectables, curios, clothing, vinyls and homewares plus boutique clothing and accessories, gifts speciality food stalls, patisserie, vegan skincare, artisan jewellery and tasty streetfood theclogmarket.co.uk @ClogMarket
@BuryMarket
Castlefield Artisan Market
The Makers Market
Royal Mills, Redhill Street M4 6JG First Saturday of the Month Castlefield Events creates a variety of local events including a monthly artisan food, craft & art market in the heart of Manchester. Bringing together some of the region’s highly acclaimed artisan food producers, as well as creating interesting antique, craft and vintage markets castlefieldmarket.org.uk
Check the website for full details Held at Weekends in Various Locations TheMakers Market brings together the finest and often award-winning food, drink, art & crafts producers in the area. It’s well known for presenting the very best of seasonal local farm produce, by people who are passionate about what they do themakersmarket.co.uk @_makersmarket
@CastlefieldEvnt
Heaton Moor Producers & Art Market
The Treacle Market
Shaw Road, Heaton Moor, SK4 4NZ 1st & 2nd Saturdays each Month The Heaton Moor Market returns in 2016 with an addition of a new Art Market. It focuses on bringing local, independent producers’ and artists together offering a wide range of products, including fresh produce, gift items and crafts
Old Butter Market, Macclesfield Last Sunday of the Month (March-August) The market started in 2010 and each month sees the handsome cobbled Marketplace, Old Butter Market, St Michael’s churchyard and surrounding streets throng with visitors and over 150 stalls of unique crafts, exceptional lovingly produced food, drink and several vintage finds treaclemarket.co.uk
heatonmoormarket.com @HMoorMarket
@treaclemarket
Levenshulme Market
The Wilmslow Artisan Market
Stockport Rd, Levenshulme Every Saturday (March-December) Levenshumle Markets delivers a diverse range of high quality traders and at every market you can expect an ever changing roster of 50 artisan traders selling produce, street food, plants, gifts, vintage clothing and homeware. Check website for full details levymarket.com
Alderley Road, Wilmslow, Cheshire SK9 1PB 3rd Saturday Monthly (10am-4pm) Consisting of over 120 of the very finest artisan market traders and is the flagship of The Market Cous events. In its alleyways you will find high-quality range of authentic goods with an emphasis on all that is local, ethical and original from traders who are all super-talented themarketco.co.uk
@levymarket
@_TheMarketCo
Piccadilly Gardens Street Food & Crafts
Vintage Village Market, Stockport
Piccadilly Gardens, Manchester City Centre Thurs, Fri and Sat
Stockport Covered Market Hall SK1 1EU
The Street Food Market features over 15 stall selling delicious food from around the globe. With dishes ranging from Middle Eastern wraps, dim sum and to chow mien noodles to Italian pasta. The Craft Market sells a variety of beautifully crafted items, from jewellery to homewares manchester.gov.uk
Held in Stockports’ ‘Glass Umbrella’ and aims to deliver things might be rare or unique, beautiful, special, amusing, useful, bizarre or remarkable in some way. They are all intensely covetable - in the Markets considered opinion - and most of them are cracking bargains too thevintagevillage.co.uk @Vintage_Village
@ManCityCouncil
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2nd Sunday Monthly (March-December)
IT’S REIGNING QUEENS, HALLELUJAH!
TUE 3 DECEMBER – SAT 11 JANUARY
DIVORCED ★ BEHEADED ★ LIVE!
THE WEST END SMASH HIT
BOOK NOW FOR CHRISTMAS
TUE 10 DECEMBER – SUN 5 JANUARY
thelowry.com/christmas