Palace Theatre Manchester

If you want to catch the big West End or Broadway productions on tour in the North of England, The Palace Theatre Manchester is your place.

Once known as the “Grand Old Lady of Oxford Street”, it has brought plays, musicals and shows to the city since 1891. Judy Garland, Noel Coward and Laurel and Hardy have all trod the boards here. 

It’s had a few renovations over the years (it took a direct hit in the Blitz) but the decor retains its fin-de-siecle feel with red velvet seating and gold trimmed balconies.

With an audience capacity of 1,955, it’s one of the biggest and best-equipped theatres outside of London. As such it tends to attract the big name shows. Recent hits to be staged here include The Lion King, Mamma Mia, and We Will Rock You.

You’ll also find comedy stars, pantomimes, ballet, and one-night-only shows on the busy programme.  

The crowds that gather outside the theatre before showtime add to the buzzy feel of this part of the city. Over 130 years on and The “Grand Old Lady” is still a huge part of Oxford Street’s cultural landscape.