It’s that time of year again where I round up the best theatre to see in Manchester in 2024. Next year is looking MEGA. From first ever tours to brand new musicals, we’re in for a treat. (AD-affiliate)
TOP 10 – IN DATE ORDER – HERE WE GO…
1. Pretty Woman the Musical
Based on the smash hit film and now a popular Musical, get to know these iconic characters in a whole new way. In the late ’80s, Vivian meets Edward and her life changes forever. Be swept up in their romance and enjoy this love story on stage.
5-16 March, Opera House
2. Agatha Christies The Mousetrap
The bestselling novelist of all time and the world’s longest running play means this is not to be missed. Seven strangers are snowed in at a remote location and the murder game begins. Can you play detective and solve this case yourself?
8 – 13 April, The Lowry
3. 42 Balloons
From the award-winning producers of SIX, this brand-new 80s style musical is flying into The Lowry for a month-long run. Follow the story of Larry, a truck driver, who flew sixteen thousand feet above LA using a lawn chair and 42 helium-filled weather balloons.
18 April – 19 May, The Lowry
4. The Wizard of Oz
Direct from The London Palladium, this new production stars Jason Manford as The Cowardly Lion and RuPaul’s Drag Race UK winner The Vivienne as The Wicked Witch of the West. You should be ‘over the rainbow’ that this is coming.
24 April – 5 May, Palace Theatre
5. Disney’s Aladdin
It feels like all our wishes have come true. This spectacular musical for all the family is on its way, probably via magic carpet. Agrabah is coming to the city along with Aladdin, Princess Jasmin, Genie and Jafar to create something special.
22 May – 7 July, Palace Theatre
Don’t forget to read my reviews of Hamilton and Life of Pi
6. Burlesque the Musical
Grab your feather boas, as this hit movie is premiering as a stage musical in Manchester. Ali heads to New York and finds herself drawn into a dazzling underground world that will change her life forever. This is going to be GLAM.
13 – 29 June, Opera House
7. A Chorus Line
It’s New York City. 1975. On a stage, seventeen performers are put through their paces in a gruelling audition for a new Broadway musical. Only eight will make the cut. This sensational musical is going to impress.
23 – 27 July, The Lowry
BUY A CHORUS LINE TICKETS HERE
8. 101 Dalmatians
Dog lovers, Pongo and Perdi need your help to unite against Cruella de Vil. This well-known story will be brought to life on stage with puppetry, exciting choreography, and witty songs.
30 July – 10 August, Palace Theatre
BUY 101 DALMATIANS TICKETS HERE
9. Only Fools and Horses the Musical
What a throwback! I grew up on Only Fools and Horses, thanks to my dad’s obsession. And now this classic British comedy is a musical with 20 hilarious songs. Lovely Jubbly! Don’t miss the Trotters in Manchester.
11 – 23 November, Opera House
10. Come From Away
Winner of four Olivier Awards, this heartwarming musical depicts a remarkable story. 7000 passengers stranded following 9/11 are taken in by a small town. It’s a show of hope, friendship and humanity told through folk-country music. Take your tissues!
3 December – 5 January 2025, The Lowry
BUY COME FROM AWAY TICKETS HERE
I hope this gives you a head start in booking some of the best and most exciting theatre across Manchester in 2024. Remember, there are other venues such a HOME and Hope Mill that you can explore too!