Free Activity at Aviva Studios

Always placing visitors and community at the heart of all their work, Aviva Studios, home of Factory International, will host another super accessible and inclusive programme of events this spring.

Throughout April and May, you’ll find comedy nights and music video premieres, Easter holiday family craft sessions and live music happening in the riverside cultural hub – and the best thing is, all activities are free.

Next up, on 3 May, head down to the Social to learn the basics of Bachata, a wildly popular social dance that originated in the Dominican Republic. Happening as part of Factory International’s Street Symphony series, you’ll learn a few moves in a facilitated workshop before hitting the dance floor. Expect a live soundtrack from DJ Yayo and lots of celebration, creativity and fun.

Meanwhile, lovers of live jazz should head down to the manchester jazz festival takeover on 25 May. The perfect closing party for mjf’s 30th anniversary edition, you’ll find international shows happening in the Social and some spectacular unplugged performances by local artists happening outside in the Undercroft. Dreamy.

Finally, throughout the Easter school holidays, from 8-18 April, you’ll find lots of colourful family crafts happening in the Social. Brilliantly accessible and great for crafty bods of all ages. Just drop in, engage your creativity and flutter away with your very own unique butterfly wings, mask and disco crown.

And if all of this sounds like thirsty work, be sure to pop by Aviva Studios’ Cafe and Bar, you’ll find pints from £4.50 and hot drinks from £1.50 – you could even treat yourself to a slice of pizza. Alternatively, feel free to bring your own packed lunch to eat in the space – you just won’t be able to reserve a table.