As winter approaches, we all love a cosy afternoon or evening indoors watching live theatre. Whether you love musicals, dance, opera, or classic Shakespeare, this list has something for you.
1) Life of Pi
Tuseday 5 December- Sunday 7 January | The Lowry | Salford
Fresh from its five Olivier Awards after taking over the West End and Broadway, the beloved novel adaptation, which first debuted at The Crucible in 2019, is set to dazzle audiences at the Lowry this winter. With expert puppetry, world-class acting, and an epic storyline of tragedy, perseverance, and hope, we think Life of Pi should be at the top of your list of shows to book this winter.
See booking info here
2) Hamilton
Saturday 11 November-Saturday 24 February | Palace Theatre | Oxford Rd
Since its Broadway premiere in 2015, Lin-Manuel Miranda’s stunning rap-focussed musical has raced its way onto many people's bucket lists. Embarking on its first-ever UK tour, this eleven-Tony award-winning masterpiece is simply a must-see for Manchester residents this winter.
So don’t throw away your shot and book tickets now.
3) I Should be so Lucky
Running until Thursday 25 November | Manchester Opera House | Quay Street
Witness the premiere of this new show from ‘Nativity!’ creator Debbie Issit. ‘I Should Be So Lucky’ is set to become a British jukebox classic, featuring music from Kyle Manoge, Rick Ashtley, Jason Donnovon, and Bananarama. Book now for an evening packed with fun tunes, fantastic choreography, and a heart-warming story about friends, family, and being there when it matters most.
4) Merchant of Venice
Tuesday 28 November-Saturday 2 December | HOME | First Street
After a sellout run in March 2023, this Shakespearean classic returns to Manchester. Immerse yourself in the action as this all-star cast transports you to East London in the 1930s. Witness this fascinating period of British history come alive on stage in a show packed with ambition, power, and political unrest.
See tickets and info here
5) Opera North's Green Season
Wednesday 15 November-Saturday 18 November | The Lowry | Salford
For decades, Opera North has been the northern jewel in the crown of this fantastic art form. This autumn, they bring their latest productions to Manchester, as part of its Green Season, underlying the company’s commitment to sustainability. These are Puccini’s La Rondine (17th November), Verdi’s Falstaff (15th, 18th November), and Purcell’s Masque of Might (16th November).
So whether you are a seasoned opera lover or a first-timer, put these dates in your diary and book now.
6) Jack and the Beanstalk
Saturday 2 December-Sunday 31 December | Manchester Opera House | Quay Street
Starring comedy superstar James Mansford, this family panto brings the popular children’s tale to life with laughs, music, magic beans, and plenty of audience participation. Be sure to look out for the relaxed performance on 14th December, bringing theatre to those who may find their visit daunting, ensuring accessibility for all.
See tickets and info here
7) Romeo and Julliet
Running until 18 November | Royal Exchange Theatre | Old Bank St
Another Shakespearean adaptation, this show tells the classic tale of Romeo and Juliet in gritty modern-day Manchester, delivering an impactful reminder of the divisions communities face day-to-day. Director Nichola La Barrie’s Royal Exchange Theatre debut opened in October to glowing reviews and there is still time to book before it closes on the 18th of November.
8) Edward Scissorhands
Tuesday 28 November-Saturday 2 December | The Lowry | Salford
Based on the Tim Burton classic, this magical dance production by Matthew Bourne, first brought to the stage in 2005, is yet again set to touch the hearts of audiences at the end of this month. This enchanting production is the perfect autumn treat, delivering something for everyone.
Limited to only seven shows, so don’t miss out and book now.
9) Museum of Austerity
Wednesday 8 November-Saturday 11 November | HOME | First Street
Enter HOME’s immersive storytelling studio and witness this ambitious exhibition which blends together theatre, history, and humanity to deliver a truly immersive experience that you won’t want to miss. Nominated for Best Digital Innovation at the UK Theatre Awards, this show addresses the issues that arose out of the decade-long austerity campaign introduced by the government in 2010.
See tickets and info here.
10) Too Wong Foo the Musical
Running until 17 December | Hope Mill Theatre | New Islington
Set in 90s New York, this show, based on the 1995 cult-classic film, sees three drag queens save America, one show tune at a time. Written by multiple Tony award nominee Douglas Carter Beane, this show is sure to deliver a little bit of everything, with a whole lot of attitude!
See tickets and info here