Manchester Opera House

Manchester Opera House is a theatre on Quay Street with nearly 2000 seats spread across stalls and two curved balconies framed by classical columns, ornate arches, and a high vaulted ceiling. The stage opens to a deep orchestra pit, and the seating rows rise steeply so audiences have good sightlines from any position.

The building opened in 1912 as the New Theatre and changed names several times before permanently becoming the Opera House in 1920. During the Second World War it served briefly as a cinema before returning to staging large musicals and ballet productions in the post-war years.

The building has kept its name for over a century and attracts loyal audiences who come here for touring premieres and occasional exclusive performances. On sold-out evenings, staircases and foyers fill with theatregoers chatting about the show during intervals and soaking in the historic surroundings.

Wheelchair spaces are available in row B of the circle, and an infrared audio system helps visitors with hearing difficulties. Bars on different levels open before the show and during intervals, with upper tiers typically less crowded than the ground-floor foyer.

The stage measures roughly 37 feet wide by 42 feet deep and can accommodate up to 80 musicians in the orchestra pit for major productions. This size allows large-scale shows with multiple sets and big casts to perform without compromising on musical accompaniment.

Location: Manchester

Inception: 1912

Architects: Albert Richardson

Official opening: 1912

Capacity: 1920

Address: Quay Street, Manchester, M3 3HP, England

Website: https://atg.co.uk

GPS coordinates: 53.47890,-2.25139

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:30