10 December 2014

Polly Checkland Harding

Introducing our Advent Calendar – the tenth post in a cultural countdown to Christmas. Today: Vintage music and Indian sweets.

There’s something uplifting going on at RNCM this evening. It’s exactly 40 years since the Northern Dance Orchestra, formed by the BBC in 1956, last played – so, to honour years of much-loved performances for both TV and radio, the RNCM Big Band will be bringing some of the NDO’s unique music library back to life. Go for the stirring sound of a whole orchestra having fun – and to relive the kind of show that, 40 years ago, would have raised the roof. RNCM, 6.30pm. Tickets from £15.

Do more. If you’re able to wait it out and go for food afterwards, it’s worth thinking about heading further down Oxford Road to the Curry Mile. While the quality here can be patchy, we’re fans of Mughli. Go off piste after your meal and seek out those ridiculously sticky, delicious Indian sweets that wink brightly from every window. For which ones to choose, see our Curry Mile Guide.

Mother's Day in Manchester and the North
Spotlight on

Mother's Day in Manchester and the North

From bespoke bouquet workshops and poetry royalty to slap-up Sunday roasts and gin tastings, check out our guide of things to do with your mum this Mother's Day.

Take me there

Culture Guides

Poet Imtiaz Dharker. Photo by Ayesha Dharker
Literature Events in the North

It's like the Woolies pick'n'mix counter this month in live literature land – so much choice, we're not sure where to start digging in.

Theatre in Manchester and the North
Theatre in the North

DaDaFest’s 40th anniversary line-up, contemporary reimaginings and outlandish fringe, check out our top theatre picks for spring onwards.

We shelter here sometimes promo image. Featuring My Dog Sighs inside and abandoned building.
Cinema in the North

David Lynch, International Women's Day and Manchester Film Festival are amongst our cinematic highlights this March.

Mohair Man, 1991, by Dave Swindells
Exhibitions in the North

Cinematic sets, 90s nightclub photography and even new gallery - we have a great mix of exhibitions for you this month.

GROVE
Music in the North

We’re championing all things underground this month, with a selection of gigs and festivals that embrace the strange.

Classical Music in the North

Read our latest highlights from the live classical music offer in Manchester and the North, taking in a number of the region's most cherished orchestral forces and venues.