What's On
A brand new independent theatre and bar is opening in the arches below Manchester Central
Great news for Manchester
Independent theatre 53Two is set to move into the arches on Watson Street with a brand new bar.
53Two have finally got a permanent home under the arches on Watson Street, just a few doors down from Three Little Words.
Back in October, the independent arts venue received a lifeline government grant from the Culture Recovery Fund.
The theatre has continued to provide ‘Pay What You Can’ services, training and opportunities throughout the various lockdowns, ensuring that creatives were able to feel connected to the arts whatever their situation.
The new space will house a 150-seat accessibly theatre including a brand new theatre bar designed by local architects Coda Studios.
Artistic director Simon Naylor said: “It’s been devastating to watch theatres across the country struggling to survive over what is surely the hardest six months they’ve ever experienced.
“Thankfully our doors weren’t open and we were able to use this time to gather support from charities like Backstage Trust, LCVS to ensure we were in the best possible position to open a new venue when the time was right.
“We’ve continued to work with Manchester Central and the city throughout this and we’re delighted to finally announce we’ll be getting started on site in the New Year.”
The bar is set to open in spring this year and will act as an accessible arts hub, continuing to pave the way for 53Two’s continued hard work to make theatre accessible, diverse and packed full of opportunities for all.
The theatre and bar will be accessible for both guests and artists, complete with accessible toilets throughout, a lowered bar and dressing room tables and ramped access at street level.