What makes it 81% Couple-Friendly: Couples get date-night value from in-the-round drama, pre-show drinks at The Rivals, and evening mood lighting in the Great Hall, though conversation is limited once performances start.
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Couples can enjoy a play, drinks and a brief tour at a relaxed pace.
Watch an in-the-round production:
See a play staged in the round in the Great Hall.
Tip: Book early online to select seats near the action.
Friday Special FX sessions:
Enjoy free live acts before evening shows.
Tip: Arrive by 6 pm to get a good spot and catch happy hour prices.
Drinks at The Rivals Bar & Café:
Sip cocktails or sample snacks before or at interval.
Tip: Pre-order interval drinks to skip the bar queue.
Guided theatre tour:
Discover building history and architecture.
Tip: Reserve spots via box office at least one week ahead.
Browse the Craft Shop & Gallery:
Explore local crafts in the foyer.
Tip: Visit before the show to avoid missing performance start.

Caroline Davenport
Just saw Singing in the Rain for our works Christmas do. It was fantastic. We all loved it. Love this theatre. We sat on high stools on the back row, stage level but view was great.
Reflect Clinic
Absolutely adored Singin’ in the rain last night! Quick G&T at Rivals bar then we were in. I wasn’t sure about a tap dancing show but its tongue in cheek nature and dashing dancers were superb. If you’re sitting on the front row though, bring a raincoat!! 💦 💦 💦 Honestly well worth going no matter what genre of theatre 🎭 you like!!! Joanna xx
Alison Williams
Quirky little theatre in the round. We saw Singing in the Rain which was amazing, with real rain! Excellent performance in a unique venue.
Hong Lee
It was our first visit to the beautiful Royal Exchange theatre in Manchester City center last Saturday to watch the Dancing At Lughnasa play, which tells the story of 5 colourful sisters, barely surviving on a farm in 1930's Ireland, and the powerful moment that changes their lives forever. I can't believe we haven't previously been to see a show at this unique multi-storey 7-sided steel & glass t...
Elizabeth Cameron’s
Outstanding in every way as a theatre. I came to its opening , and saw my first ever theatre play here 'in the round', the production was "Zack" with Trevor Peacock ( from dim memory) I remember being fascinated by the knife sharpener for some reason 🤔😅. I was there last week for the Pan African Speakeasy , prior to the showing of "Liberation " stellar performances from everyone. And all credit...
Book Christmas and holiday productions early; visit in Jan–Feb for off-peak ticket deals.
Explore These Activities
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Play tickets (2 standard seats) | GBP 40 |
| Interval drinks for two | GBP 10 |
| Guided tour (2) | GBP 20 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 70 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Address: St Ann's Square, Manchester M2 7DH, UK
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Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
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