Kristy Stott

The Royal Exchange’s Christmas show is always a festive highlight – this year it’s Emma Rice’s smash-hit adaptation of the Noël Coward classic.

Joyous, moving with an irresistible soundtrack, Cruise is an Olivier-Award nominated play, written and performed by Jack Holden, set during the AIDs crisis of the 1980s.

Follow two young lovers as they risk everything to be together in Matthew Bourne’s vital and contemporary reimagining of Romeo and Juliet.

Cheerful, chaotic and charming, the HandleBards cycle in with a wonderfully unhinged and laugh-out-loud version of the much-loved Shakespearean comedy.

Showcasing some of the best performance across the world, the UK’s largest biennial festival of contemporary Arab culture brings two bold productions to The Lowry.

Kickstarting a conversation around ethical fashion choices and inspiring the next generation, the Contact Young Company’s next show explores sustainability and YOUR wardrobe.

The Handlebards and The Pantaloons are just two of the theatre companies set to perform in the grounds of the spectacular Grade I-listed Ordsall Hall this summer.

Featuring performance and song, crumpets and conversation, theatre-maker Mark Croasdale brings a new show inspired by the experience of caring for a grandparent with dementia.

Join a panel of esteemed writers for a discussion dedicated to epic narratives in contemporary British and Latin American fiction.

Fancy a taste of Spain without stepping foot out of Manchester? Head down to Cervantes Institute for their Summer Open Day.

A true master of their craft, the legendary trans performer, Justin Vivian Bond brings one special night of cabaret greatness to MIF23.