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Performance Venues

Need a performance venue in Manchester? From theatres to concert halls, indoors and outdoors, we've listed the best performance spaces near you.

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Trending Performance Venues in Manchester

Manchester is full of excellent performance venues, from grand theatres and concert halls to outdoor performance spaces and underground venues.

  • !Audacious Conferencing - image
    From £6,000 per person1,400

    A flexible 1400-seat auditorium with top-notch AV for various events and concerts.

  • Victoria Warehouse  - image
    From £80 per person1,000

    A vast industrial event space in Manchester, hosting up to 5,000 for shows, conferences, and more.

  • Manchester

    Contact Theatre

    From £325 per person290

    A versatile venue in Manchester offering unique spaces for weddings and events with theatrical flair.

    See venue
  • Manchester

    The Bridgewater Hall

    From £14,000 per person1,800

    A prestigious 1800-seat auditorium in Manchester, ideal for conferences with excellent facilities.

    See venue
  • Salford Quays

    Lowry

    From £9,500 per person1,730

    A modern theatre space seating 1,730, ideal for performances and large events in MediaCityUK.

    See venue
  • Mediacity UK

    The Empty Space

    From £300 per person300

    A versatile venue with a large stage, bar, terrace, and rehearsal room. Ideal for events and performances.

    See venue
  • Oxford Rd Corridor

    The Deaf Institute

    From £100 per person260

    Iconic multi-floor music venue in Manchester, ideal for private events, filming, and workshops.

    See venue
  • City Centre

    Gorilla

    From £3,500 per person550

    A versatile industrial music venue with a private club area, ideal for concerts and parties.

    See venue

Performance Venues

Need a performance venue in Manchester? From theatres to concert halls, indoors and outdoors, we've listed the best performance spaces near you.

About Performance Venues

### Discovering Manchester's Performance Venues: A Guide for Event Professionals When seeking the ideal performance venue in Manchester, event professionals must consider a blend of factors to ensure the space not only meets the technical requirements of the performance but also enhances the overall experience for attendees. Manchester's eclectic mix of venues offers a canvas for every type of event, from avant-garde theatre productions to grand orchestral concerts. Firstly, assess the acoustics and seating capacity to match the scale of your event. Venues with tiered seating, such as those resembling the historical Manchester Opera House, provide excellent sightlines and sound distribution, crucial for immersive performances. For contemporary dance or experimental theatre, consider spaces with flexible staging and audience configurations. Transport links are vital; a venue within walking distance of Manchester's central train stations, like Piccadilly or Victoria, will ease accessibility for both local and travelling attendees. Additionally, check for nearby parking facilities, especially for events with large set pieces or instruments. Remember, the venue's ambiance is pivotal. Manchester's Northern Quarter, with its vibrant street art and music scene, can lend a creative and edgy feel to your event. Alternatively, venues that echo the grandeur of the Palace Theatre can add a touch of sophistication. Lastly, liaise with the venue's technical team early on. Many Manchester venues boast state-of-the-art lighting and sound equipment, ensuring your performance has the professional edge it deserves. By meticulously selecting a venue that aligns with your event's artistic vision and practical needs, you'll set the stage for a truly memorable performance in Manchester. Explore more about [Presentation Venues Manchester](https://hirespace.com/GB/Manchester/Presentation-Venues) and consider the possibilities for your next event. ### Maximising Your Event's Potential: Tips for Choosing the Perfect Manchester Venue Choosing the perfect performance venue in Manchester is pivotal to the success of your event. It's not just about finding a space that can accommodate your audience; it's about creating an environment that amplifies the impact of your performance and leaves a lasting impression. When selecting a venue, consider the nature of your event. Is it a dynamic dance show requiring a sprung floor, or a classical concert needing superb acoustics? Venues like the iconic Manchester Arena are equipped for large-scale productions, while smaller, more intimate venues can provide a unique atmosphere for niche performances. Accessibility is key. Opt for venues with excellent transport links, ensuring attendees can arrive with ease. Manchester's well-connected network of trams and buses, alongside mainline train stations, facilitates smooth travel to and from the event. Technical capabilities should not be overlooked. Many Manchester venues offer advanced lighting and sound systems, but it's essential to confirm they meet your specific needs. Engage with the venue's technical team to discuss your requirements and ensure they can support the creative vision of your performance. Don't forget the ancillary spaces. Green rooms, dressing areas, and rehearsal spaces are just as important as the main stage. Ensure the venue can provide these additional areas to keep your performers comfortable and prepared. Finally, consider the venue's ambiance and how it aligns with your event's theme. Whether you're looking for a venue with historical charm or a modern, cutting-edge space, Manchester's diverse selection of performance venues has something to offer. By taking these factors into account, you'll not only choose the perfect venue but also maximise your event's potential. For more insights into venue selection, explore similar pages like [Private Screening Rooms London](https://hirespace.com/GB/London/Private-Screenings) and [Presentation Venues](https://hirespace.com/GB/Birmingham/Presentation-Venues). ### Creating an Unforgettable Atmosphere: Event Design and Entertainment in Manchester Creating an unforgettable atmosphere is at the heart of every successful event, especially when it comes to performance venues in Manchester. The city's dynamic cultural scene offers a plethora of options to elevate your event from ordinary to extraordinary. Here are some actionable tips to help you design an event that captivates and entertains your audience. Firstly, consider the cultural tapestry of Manchester when planning your event design. Incorporate elements that reflect the city's industrial heritage or its musical legacy to create a connection with the locale. Utilise local artists and performers to add authenticity and a Mancunian flair to your entertainment lineup. Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood. Work with skilled technicians to design a lighting scheme that complements the architecture of the venue and enhances the performance. Whether you're aiming for dramatic spotlights or a soft, ambient glow, Manchester's performance venues often come equipped with advanced lighting systems to realise your vision. Sound is just as important. Ensure the audio quality is impeccable by conducting sound checks and liaising with the venue's in-house sound engineers. This is particularly important in a city known for its musical excellence. Don't overlook the power of interactive elements. Engage your audience with immersive experiences, such as live voting, social media walls, or augmented reality features, which can be facilitated by the technological infrastructure of venues like [Presentation Venues Manchester](https://hirespace.com/GB/Manchester/Presentation-Venues). Finally, remember that the atmosphere extends beyond the main event. Create welcoming reception areas and comfortable breakout spaces for guests to mingle and relax. By focusing on these details, you'll craft an unforgettable atmosphere that resonates with attendees and honours the vibrant spirit of Manchester. ### Seamless Event Execution: Navigating Technical and Logistical Aspects in Manchester Ensuring seamless event execution in Manchester's performance venues requires meticulous planning, particularly when it comes to the technical and logistical aspects. Here are some targeted tips to help you navigate these crucial elements for a flawless event. Firstly, establish a clear line of communication with the venue's technical team. Understanding the in-house capabilities, from lighting rigs to sound systems, is essential. Venues like the Manchester Arena are renowned for their state-of-the-art facilities, but it's important to confirm that they can cater to your event's specific technical demands. Schedule a walk-through to familiarise yourself with the space and discuss your requirements in detail. Transportation logistics are also key. If you're expecting large set pieces or numerous instruments, check for loading bays and freight elevators. Ensure there's ample time allocated for setup and breakdown within your venue hire period. For events in central locations, such as those near [Presentation Venues Manchester](https://hirespace.com/GB/Manchester/Presentation-Venues), consider the traffic flow and plan for off-peak delivery times to avoid congestion. Lastly, don't underestimate the importance of a detailed run sheet. Include timing for rehearsals, sound checks, and any special cues. This will keep all parties, from performers to stage managers, synchronised. Remember, successful events hinge on the smooth orchestration of these behind-the-scenes elements, so invest the time in planning to ensure your event in Manchester runs without a hitch. ### Beyond the Performance: Enhancing Guest Experience in Manchester's Cultural Hub In the heart of Manchester's cultural hub, the guest experience extends far beyond the final curtain call. To truly captivate your audience, consider the rich tapestry of the city's offerings to complement your event at a performance venue. Here are some practical tips to enhance the overall experience for your guests. Start by embracing Manchester's musical legacy. Curate a playlist that features local artists for pre-show and intermission ambiance, setting the tone and connecting guests with the city's vibrant scene. For post-event networking, select a nearby bar in the Northern Quarter, known for its eclectic mix of live music and DJ sets, ensuring the energy of the performance carries on into the night. Incorporate Manchester's artistic flair into your event design. Collaborate with local artists for bespoke installations or interactive art pieces in the venue's foyer or lounge areas. This not only supports the local creative community but also gives attendees a unique and memorable talking point. For international guests, provide a mini-guide to Manchester's landmarks and cultural spots, such as The Whitworth art gallery or HOME, encouraging exploration before or after your event. This gesture not only enriches their visit but also showcases the city's pride in its cultural assets. Lastly, consider the comfort and convenience of your guests. Partner with local hotels for special rates and ensure your venue is accessible, with clear signage and information on Manchester's extensive public transport options. By thoughtfully curating the guest experience around Manchester's cultural offerings, you'll leave a lasting impression that transcends the event itself. Explore more about enhancing events in Manchester with resources like [Presentation Venues Manchester](https://hirespace.com/GB/Manchester/Presentation-Venues) and delve into the city's event possibilities.

Featured Venues for Performance Venues

Browse 16 venues perfect for Performance Venues

Events at !Audacious Conferencing

A flexible 1400-seat auditorium with top-notch AV for various events and concerts.

From: £6000 per person

Capacity: Up to 1400 guests

Business at Victoria Warehouse

A vast industrial event space in Manchester, hosting up to 5,000 for shows, conferences, and more.

From: £80 per person

Capacity: Up to 1000 guests

Weddings at Contact Theatre

A versatile venue in Manchester offering unique spaces for weddings and events with theatrical flair.

From: £325 per person

Capacity: Up to 290 guests

Business at The Bridgewater Hall

A prestigious 1800-seat auditorium in Manchester, ideal for conferences with excellent facilities.

From: £14000 per person

Capacity: Up to 1800 guests

Arts at Lowry

A modern theatre space seating 1,730, ideal for performances and large events in MediaCityUK.

From: £9500 per person

Capacity: Up to 1730 guests

Pop-up at The Empty Space

A versatile venue with a large stage, bar, terrace, and rehearsal room. Ideal for events and performances.

From: £300 per person

Capacity: Up to 300 guests

Film and Photo at The Deaf Institute

Iconic multi-floor music venue in Manchester, ideal for private events, filming, and workshops.

From: £100 per person

Capacity: Up to 260 guests

Events at Gorilla

A versatile industrial music venue with a private club area, ideal for concerts and parties.

From: £3500 per person

Capacity: Up to 550 guests

Events at Albert Hall Manchester

A versatile standing room in a historic chapel venue, ideal for music gigs, corporate events, and private parties.

From: £7500 per person

Capacity: Up to 1300 guests

Events at Ascension Church Hulme

A versatile large space in a church, ideal for gigs, rehearsals, performances, and art exhibitions.

From: £500 per person

Capacity: Up to 150 guests

...and 6 more venues available

Frequently Asked Questions

How central are Manchester's performance venues?

Manchester boasts centrally located performance venues with excellent public transport links, making them accessible for local and travelling audiences. Always check proximity to transport hubs.

How to find a characterful venue in Manchester?

For a venue with character, explore Manchester's converted industrial spaces which blend historic charm with modern facilities, adding a unique atmosphere to your performance.

What size venue is best for intimate shows?

For intimate performances in Manchester, seek smaller venues or private spaces within larger venues to create a personal experience. Capacity of 50-200 is often ideal for such events.

Are Manchester venues tech-ready for shows?

Many performance venues in Manchester come tech-equipped with sound, lighting, and special effects capabilities, crucial for dynamic shows. Always confirm the technical specifications and support available when booking.

What acoustics can I expect in Manchester venues?

Manchester's concert halls and theatres typically offer superior acoustics, ideal for musical and theatrical performances. Look for venues with purpose-built stages and sound systems to ensure the best auditory experience for your audience.

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