What's on in Manchester
What's on in Manchester
Thursday 21 May 2026
The Karate Kid The Musical
The Karate Kid The Musical
Palace Theatre, Manchester
The Karate Kid - The Musical brings the legendary 1984 film to life on stage. Don't miss the unforgettable theatrical experience of the season as this heartfelt coming-of-age story takes flight with spectacular musical numbers and dazzlingl...Jonathan Van Ness
Jonathan Van Ness
Albert Hall, Manchester
Queer Eye star and beloved global icon Jonathan Van Ness is heading back to the UK with their brand new solo show Hot & Healed, bringing an unforgettable night of sparkling humour, heartfelt honesty and fierce fun to stages across the count...The Mystery of Banksy - A Genius Mind
The Mystery of Banksy - A Genius Mind
Depot Mayfield, Manchester
Europe's most popular Banksy exhibition lands in Manchester, opening from the 13th March 2026 at Depot Mayfield. Step inside the mind of Banksy with an art experience for all, featuring over 200 reimagined works by the acclaimed street ar...Luminiscence
Luminiscence
Manchester Cathedral, Manchester
Arriving in the UK for the first time, after dazzling over 1 Million people in Europe, the incredible immersive projection concert LUMINISCENCE transforms Manchester Cathedral into a fully immersive world of sound, story, and light. Featuri...Super Furry Animals
Super Furry Animals
O2 Apollo, Manchester
Led by Gruff Rhys, Cardiff quintet Super Furry Animals are a musically eclectic band, incorporating pop, prog, punk, jungle, electronica, techno and death metal. Bursting on to the scene in 1996, SFA's UK Top 20 hit singles include "Northe...Even These Things
Even These Things
Royal Exchange Theatre, Manchester
An epic story of Manchester and Ireland by multi award-winning playwright Rory Mullarkey premieres at the Royal Exchange Theatre, 30 years after an IRA bomb devastated the heart of the city. Three centuries. Three moments in time. In 1846...The Hallé & Anna Lapwood - West Side Story Symphonic Dances
The Hallé & Anna Lapwood - West Side Story Symphonic Dances
The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester
Kristina Arakelyan, dubbed internationally as 'one to watch' (Scala Radio), is one of today's most exciting composers, celebrated by audiences and critics alike for her music's serene and compelling honesty. What a treat we have in store to...Fcukers
Fcukers
New Century, Manchester
New York electronic duo Fcukers - producer Jackson Walker Lewis and vocalist Shanny Wise, the former frontwoman of The Shacks - have been described by Insomniac as paying "homage to parties gone before them but moreso to the maestros who su...Warmduscher
Warmduscher
The White Hotel, Manchester
The salaciously groovy and expertly grimey Warmduscher have never taken to the term "supergroup", but it's safe to say that their unique, potent blend of raw musicianship, down 'n' dirty rock riffs and devil-may-care party attitude was birt...Machu Picchu - Journey to the Lost City
Machu Picchu - Journey to the Lost City
Transmission House, Manchester
Machu Picchu: Journey to the Lost City transports you back 450 years ago to the heart of the ancient Inca Empire in stunning virtual reality. You'll climb the breathtaking peaks of the Andes, wander through the Temple of the Sun, walk the f...Jerron Paxton
Jerron Paxton
Hallé St Peter's, Manchester
Described by The Wall Street Journal as "virtually the only music-maker of his generation - playing guitar, banjo, piano and violin, among other implements - to fully assimilate the blues idiom of the 1920s and '30s, the blues of Bessie Smi...Yellowjackets
Yellowjackets
Band On The Wall, Manchester
As a tight, longstanding jazz ensemble, Yellowjackets has explored a universe all its own of electroacoustic soundscapes in its nearly four-decade history. Since the band's eponymous 1981 debut album, Yellowjackets has consistently forged a...One Breath Before The End
One Breath Before The End
53two, Manchester
1912 Productions presents the second play from Stephen Leach (Can't Wait To Leave) and directed by Mimi Collins (Water Party, Snakeskin Suit, Orange Flower Water), One Breath Before The End is a moving, acutely intimate piece exploring how ...Bubble Planet - An Immersive Experience
Bubble Planet - An Immersive Experience
Depot Mayfield, Manchester
Welcome to Bubble Planet, where bubbles are bigger and more magical than ever. Let your inner child run free and follow your imagination in this spherical universe full of soap bubbles, air bubbles, and even virtual reality. Explore every ...Northern Soul: Still Burning (15)
Northern Soul: Still Burning (15)
HOME, Manchester
A new documentary charting the history of Northern Soul from its birth at the world-famous Wigan Casino. Following on from 2012 documentary Keep on Burning - The Story of Northern Soul, this new film further explores the cultural phenomeno...Adventures in Wonderland
Adventures in Wonderland
Z-arts, Manchester
Fall down the rabbit hole and have your very own magical adventure with Adventures in Wonderland at Z-arts! Created by Z-arts in partnership with Macmillan Children's Books, step into Alice's shoes and have your very own magical Adventure i...Horizon of Khufu - Journey to Ancient Egypt
Horizon of Khufu - Journey to Ancient Egypt
Transmission House, Manchester
The Pyramids of Egypt have arrived in the UK for the first time! This immersive and groundbreaking expedition takes you back to the golden age of ancient Egypt, allowing you to explore the depths of the iconic pyramids, meet the goddess Bas...Horrible Science - Cosmic Chaos
Horrible Science - Cosmic Chaos
Science & Industry Museum, Manchester
An out-of-this-world premiere exhibition, now open at the Science and Industry Museum. Blast off into the solar system and embark on a cosmic adventure guided by familiar characters from the brand-new BBC Horrible Science TV series. Walk in...StreetHunt Games: Outdoor scavenger hunt
StreetHunt Games: Outdoor scavenger hunt
Great Northern Square, Manchester
Will you crack the case? Whether you're planning a day out or a team event with a difference, this is Manchester as you've never experienced it. Friends, couples & families - Something fun, surprising and story-driven. Corporate & group boo...StreetHunt Games: Outdoor treasure hunt
StreetHunt Games: Outdoor treasure hunt
Science & Industry Museum, Manchester
Will you crack the case? Whether you're planning a day out or a team event with a difference, this is Manchester as you've never experienced it. Friends, couples & families - Something fun, surprising and story-driven. Corporate & group boo...Friday 22 May 2026
The Karate Kid The Musical
The Karate Kid The Musical
Palace Theatre, Manchester
The Karate Kid - The Musical brings the legendary 1984 film to life on stage. Don't miss the unforgettable theatrical experience of the season as this heartfelt coming-of-age story takes flight with spectacular musical numbers and dazzlingl...The Mystery of Banksy - A Genius Mind
The Mystery of Banksy - A Genius Mind
Depot Mayfield, Manchester
Europe's most popular Banksy exhibition lands in Manchester, opening from the 13th March 2026 at Depot Mayfield. Step inside the mind of Banksy with an art experience for all, featuring over 200 reimagined works by the acclaimed street ar...Luminiscence
Luminiscence
Manchester Cathedral, Manchester
Arriving in the UK for the first time, after dazzling over 1 Million people in Europe, the incredible immersive projection concert LUMINISCENCE transforms Manchester Cathedral into a fully immersive world of sound, story, and light. Featuri...Philharmonic Sessions: The Rite of Spring
Philharmonic Sessions: The Rite of Spring
Aviva Studios, Manchester
'Watching an orchestra in this way is a one of a kind experience. The classical music comes alive and is able to be appreciated for what it is - a dynamic, expressive medium'. Manchester Evening News The BBC Philharmonic Orchestra returns t...Kraftwerk
Kraftwerk
O2 Apollo, Manchester
Influential German electronica icons Kraftwerk and the much-celebrated robots return, bringing with them their constantly upgraded Multimedia Tour which began back in 2012 at the Museum of Modern Art in New York. Part performance, part d...Gary Delaney
Gary Delaney
Waterside, Manchester
Gary Delaney's last UK tour ran for two and a half years across 378 dates. People laughed a lot and kept coming back. His videos have hundreds of millions of views. So now he's doing it all again with a brand new show. All new jokes and utt...Even These Things
Even These Things
Royal Exchange Theatre, Manchester
An epic story of Manchester and Ireland by multi award-winning playwright Rory Mullarkey premieres at the Royal Exchange Theatre, 30 years after an IRA bomb devastated the heart of the city. Three centuries. Three moments in time. In 1846...Glen Hansard (The Frames)
Glen Hansard (The Frames)
Albert Hall, Manchester
Irish singer-songwriter and musician, Glen Hansard is known for his dynamic live shows. Since 1990, he has been the frontman of the Irish rock band The Frames. His 2015 second solo album "Didn't He Ramble" was nominated for the Grammy Award...Tinariwen
Tinariwen
O2 Ritz, Manchester
Tinariwen is a collective of Tuareg musicians from the Sahara region of northern Mali. Considered pioneers of desert blues, the group's guitar-driven style combines traditional Tuareg and African music with Western rock music. ...Jamali Maddix
Jamali Maddix
Cultplex, Manchester
Critically acclaimed comedian Jamali Maddix is back on the road with his brand-new show, Aston. Expect Jamali's trademark brutally honest and unflinching perspectives on the world at large. His last tours have sold-out shows across the ...Machu Picchu - Journey to the Lost City
Machu Picchu - Journey to the Lost City
Transmission House, Manchester
Machu Picchu: Journey to the Lost City transports you back 450 years ago to the heart of the ancient Inca Empire in stunning virtual reality. You'll climb the breathtaking peaks of the Andes, wander through the Temple of the Sun, walk the f...Lucia & The Best Boys
Lucia & The Best Boys
Manchester Academy, Manchester
For nearly a decade, Lucia Fairfull has been carving out her place as an artist in the UK indie scene. The culmination of that hard graft and bold vision is music rooted in her Scottish upbringing and shaped by the creative community she ha...Ahmet Aslan
Ahmet Aslan
The Stoller Hall, Manchester
Zazaki artist Ahmet Aslan creates a sound world of timeless beauty in which you can fully immerse yourself. He achieves this in part through his voice, which is robust and warm yet capable of soaring with emotional intensity. Alongside his ...One Breath Before The End
One Breath Before The End
53two, Manchester
1912 Productions presents the second play from Stephen Leach (Can't Wait To Leave) and directed by Mimi Collins (Water Party, Snakeskin Suit, Orange Flower Water), One Breath Before The End is a moving, acutely intimate piece exploring how ...Bubble Planet - An Immersive Experience
Bubble Planet - An Immersive Experience
Depot Mayfield, Manchester
Welcome to Bubble Planet, where bubbles are bigger and more magical than ever. Let your inner child run free and follow your imagination in this spherical universe full of soap bubbles, air bubbles, and even virtual reality. Explore every ...Seafret
Seafret
Manchester Academy, Manchester
Indie folk rock duo Seafret consists of singer Jack Sedman and guitarist Harry Draper, from Bridlington, East Riding of Yorkshire, England. Their debut studio album Tell Me It's Real peaked at No. 59 on the UK Albums Chart. ...Nirvana Tribute
Nirvana Tribute
Freight Island, Manchester
Nirvana Tribute is the world renowned No.1 international touring tribute that has toured more than a dozen countries including the US, Europe and Asia. They have been featured in magazines & on television & radio across the globe. Regarded ...Northern Soul: Still Burning (15)
Northern Soul: Still Burning (15)
HOME, Manchester
A new documentary charting the history of Northern Soul from its birth at the world-famous Wigan Casino. Following on from 2012 documentary Keep on Burning - The Story of Northern Soul, this new film further explores the cultural phenomeno...Lily Moore
Lily Moore
The Deaf Institute, Manchester
Despite only just turning 21, the daughter of rock star royalty - the late Thin Lizzy guitarist Gary Moore - has already been making giant steps as an artist. She made her TV debut featuring on the New Year's editions of BBC Top of the Pops...The Library of Enchantment
The Library of Enchantment
Z-arts, Manchester
Ever wanted to step inside a story? The Library of Enchantment is a fun-filled thrilling family-friendly escape room, full of seafaring adventures, time travelling tricks and a pesky old bookworm who's always up to meddlesome mischief! Can ...
Saturday 23 May 2026
The Karate Kid The Musical
The Karate Kid The Musical
Palace Theatre, Manchester
The Karate Kid - The Musical brings the legendary 1984 film to life on stage. Don't miss the unforgettable theatrical experience of the season as this heartfelt coming-of-age story takes flight with spectacular musical numbers and dazzlingl...The Hallé - It's A Livin' Thing: The Music of Jeff Lynne's ELO
The Hallé - It's A Livin' Thing: The Music of Jeff Lynne's ELO
The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester
Experience the legendary Electric Light Orchestra's unique fusion of rock, pop and classical music as you've never heard it before, in this live orchestral celebration of Jeff Lynne's visionary music. Formed in 1970 in Birmingham UK, the El...Doja Cat
Doja Cat
Co-op Live, Manchester
The "Queen of Pop-Rap", GRAMMY Award-winning L.A. rapper and global superstar Doja Cat is best known for the UK no.1 single and International chart topper "Paint the Town Red". With over 65 million records sold worldwide, her Platinum-sell...The Mystery of Banksy - A Genius Mind
The Mystery of Banksy - A Genius Mind
Depot Mayfield, Manchester
Europe's most popular Banksy exhibition lands in Manchester, opening from the 13th March 2026 at Depot Mayfield. Step inside the mind of Banksy with an art experience for all, featuring over 200 reimagined works by the acclaimed street ar...Luminiscence
Luminiscence
Manchester Cathedral, Manchester
Arriving in the UK for the first time, after dazzling over 1 Million people in Europe, the incredible immersive projection concert LUMINISCENCE transforms Manchester Cathedral into a fully immersive world of sound, story, and light. Featuri...Kraftwerk
Kraftwerk
O2 Apollo, Manchester
Influential German electronica icons Kraftwerk and the much-celebrated robots return, bringing with them their constantly upgraded Multimedia Tour which began back in 2012 at the Museum of Modern Art in New York. Part performance, part d...The Corinthians: We Were The Champions (PG)
The Corinthians: We Were The Champions (PG)
HOME, Manchester
This is the incredible real-life story of the original rebel girls of football - The Corinthians Ladies FC from Manchester - who defied The FA's 50-year ban on women playing to become global champions. Told exclusively by 10 surviving playe...Kingfishr
Kingfishr
Manchester Academy, Manchester
Three unassuming young lads from Ireland have stories to tell, and they know how to tell them well. Meet Kingfishr, the folk-rock band rapidly becoming one of the most talked-about and in-demand acts for 2025. As society frets and fights ov...Even These Things
Even These Things
Royal Exchange Theatre, Manchester
An epic story of Manchester and Ireland by multi award-winning playwright Rory Mullarkey premieres at the Royal Exchange Theatre, 30 years after an IRA bomb devastated the heart of the city. Three centuries. Three moments in time. In 1846...Kingfishr
