Making a violin isn’t easy: it takes 400 years of love, murder and the devil’s whim. Weaving together tales from across Europe, this new folk opera is told through wild gypsy rhythms and a kaleidoscopic array of virtuosic playing. Whether made from the bones of a young woman or the strange alchemy of the violin-maker’s craft, the old magic and wanton science surrounding the fiddle are brought to life in story and song. With music by Joe Townsend and words by Alasdair Middleton (The Adventures of Pinocchio).

A talented but unsuccessful painter, acquires a portrait that is under a curse and allows him to quickly become a celebrated society artist. Bedazzled by the glory, the rich and famous are at his feet, the money and invitations roll in and he is the talk of the town. But ownership of the portrait leads him to betray his own art and when he realises this, he resorts to drastic and violent action…
 
Based on the short story by Russian author Nikolai Gogol, Weinberg‘s little known opera portrays the harmful influence of money and fame. A close friend and follower of the composer Shostakovich, Opera North is very much part of a revival of interest in Weinberg’s work in Europe. Director David Pountney is a prime mover is this revival and will direct the Company’s production.
 
Acclaimed tenor Paul Nilon sings the lead role of Chartkov, having worked closely with Opera North over many years, singing major roles such as Idomeneo, Orfeo and Werther. The major role of Nikita, Chartkov’s servant, is sung by Richard Burkhard, seen most recently as Sir Despard in 2010’s Ruddigore.
 
This is a telling picture of the corrupt world of art and fashion - a powerful opera that emerges as a cautionary tale of our times.
 
Sung in English
Lasts approximately 2 hours 30 minutes

Bizet’s tale of passion, sexual obsession and revenge consistently rates as one of the best loved operas, with ‘Toreador’ recognised worldwide. Celebrated American director Daniel Kramer brings his treatment to Carmen, which has not been seen by Opera North audiences for over ten years.
 
The fiery Carmen, sung by soprano Heather Shipp, acclaimed recently at Opera North in diverse roles Mad Margaret, Ruddigore and Donna, Skin Deep, sparks jealousy and violence around her through her flirtatious and flighty behaviour. Toying with emotions, she leads a merry dance that results in tragedy with the revengeful murder of her lover.
 
American soprano, Sandra Piques Eddy makes her British debut in the Spring, sharing the role of Carmen. Young Lithuanian bass-baritone Kostas Smoriginas also makes his Company debut as Escamillo.
 
Sung in French with English titles
Lasts approximately 3 hours

Enjoy an evening of nostalgia in the company of Maine Road legends Mike Summerbee, Tony Book, Tommy Booth, Paul Lake and Nicky Summerbee (subject to availability).

Re-live the golden years of the late 60’s and early 70’s when City won the League, the FA Cup, the League Cup and were also victorious in the European Cup Winners Cup. 

You'll hear stories of their playing careers and listen to their views about City as the club once again strives for greatness. The show will be hosted by radio commentator and author Fred Eyre.

Opera North’s family favourite returns.

The irresistible story of the wooden boy who longs to be real is brought bursting to life in this musical tale for all the family. Enter a fairytale world full of colourful characters, spellbinding music, memorable songs and a magical set. This fantastical production captures all the inventiveness and charm of the original 1880s creation.
Sung in English.
‘Funny, poignant, tuneful, spectacular...Beg, borrow, steal or preferably buy a ticket.’ The Times

***** The Guardian, The Sunday Telegraph, The Times

Join us for an exclusive family tour around the city centre!

A curious and entertaining walking tour around the city centre incoporating dragons, roses, warriors, bees, fantastical stories, spectacular sights, lavish views, giant hogweed, herons and the odd ghostly tale. The guide will be Jonathan Schofield, the editor of Manchester Confidential and father of three who's dragged his sons around the city on numerous occasions and knows how to keep them interested without resorting to bribes of ice cream. Well not all the time anyway. Meet outside Manchester Town Hall entrance in Albert Square.

(tours last a max of 90mins)

The UK's South Asian Music Youth Orchestra returns to The Lowry with a stunning array of specially commissioned compositions, ranging from English folk songs to Bollywood!

An internationally renowned art museum and one of the most significant architectural icons of the 20th century, the Guggenheim Museum is at once a vital cultural center, an educational institution, and the heart of an international network of museums.

Visitors can experience special exhibitions of modern and contemporary art, lectures by artists and critics, performances and film screenings, classes for teens and adults, and daily tours of the galleries led by experienced docents.

Founded on a collection of early modern masterpieces, the Guggenheim Museum today is an ever-growing institution devoted to the art of the 20th century and beyond.

Q: Are baby strollers or backpacks permitted in the museum?
A: All backpacks, large toddler carriers, double-sided strollers, jogging strollers, large umbrellas, and bags or packages larger than 16 x 16 inches (40 x 40 cm) must be checked. All bags are subject to inspection. Visitors may check these items in the coatroom.

Q: Is there a coatroom?
A: The coatroom is located on the ground floor of the museum. All backpacks, large umbrellas, strollers and bags and packages larger than 16 x 16 inches must be checked in the coatroom. You must present your Admission Ticket prior to checking your belongings.

Q: Are visitors permitted to sketch in the museum?
A: Pencils, sketchbooks, and notebooks are permitted. However, pens, paints, and easels are not permitted.

Q: Is there a place to eat in the museum?
A: Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum's Frank Lloyd Wright designed building, the Wright is now open for lunch, Friday through Wednesday from 11:30 am to 3:30 pm. The bar menu is served until 5 pm, and Sunday Brunches are served from 11 am to 5 pm. Dinner service will begin in mid-January. Make reservations by calling 212 427 5690. You may also visit Cafe 3, located in the Kandinsky Gallery on Annex Level 3. It is open Friday through Wednesday from 10:30 am to 3 pm.

Museum Hours

Sun-Wed 10am 5:45 pm

Fri 10am 5:45 pm

Sat 10am 7:45 pm

Closed Thurs, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day

Some galleries may close prior to 5:45 pm Sun-Wed and Fri (7:45 pm Sat)

A Ballet Theatre UK Production

Ballet Theatre UK proudly presents The Nutcracker, where Tchaikovsky’s most loved and unforgettable musical score combines with magical choreography, exquisite costumes and breath taking scenery that together creates an atmosphere of fantasy and illusion.

Hoffman’s classic Christmas story unfolds with the same timeless delight and beauty that has captivated audiences of all ages across the world, in one of the most festive and enduring ballets of all time.

The Nutcracker tells the story of Clara, her Nutcracker doll and the magician Drosselmeyer, and their amazing adventures in the Land of Snow and the Kingdom of the Sweets. It is a spellbinding experience; Clara battles with a Mouse King, dances with snowflakes and falls in love with a handsome Prince.
Including such well know favourites as The Dance of the Sugar PlumFairy, The Waltz of the Flowers, The Grand Pas de Deux and the world famous Waltz of the Snowflakes, as well as all your favourite Nutcracker sweeties.

Ballet Theatre UK promises to enchant you with this fairytale production of breath taking beauty and delight, showcasing a company of young and talented international dancers. This all new production promises to be a highlight on the calendar of any dance fan.

How the 20th Century Was Reported

One of our greatest reporters gives his vivid and typically opinionated account of how British media reported key moments in our history. Simpson will examine ways in which the media has changed and reveal how it often knowingly – and at times irresponsibly – manipulates events. With a forensic eye for detail, he will ask whether the press can ever be truly independent – and, if it can, would we really want it to be?