What makes it 72% Kids-Friendly: Craft days, interactive workshops, baby-change toilets, and relaxed shows welcome children up to 12, yet some plays are long and seats lack leg-room for restless kids.
Why 2–3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for a short family-friendly show, a craft workshop, and exploring the play lounge without rushing.
Family Fun Day:
Drop in 10 am–5 pm for free crafts, face painting and short performances.
Tip: Arrive early to join the busiest craft stations before they fill up.
Interactive Music Workshop:
Attend a 45-minute Persian music session with singing and games.
Tip: Check the schedule online and arrive 10 minutes before start to find seats together.
Puppetry & Story-Making:
Join free puppet shows or story sessions for ages 4–8 and their adults.
Tip: Wear clothes you don’t mind getting paint on if you join in face painting.
Family-Friendly Show:
Book a child-focused production (e.g. The Boy Who Ran from the Sea).
Tip: Buy tickets in advance; children under 18 months sit free on laps.
Lounge Play Area & Craft Gallery:
Relax in comfy seats with toys, books and browse local crafts.
Tip: Use free Wi-Fi to check show times or download a colouring sheet before the show.

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...
During school holidays the theatre adds extra free family workshops. In winter look out for Christmas pantomimes and book early to get best seats.
Explore These Activities
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 4 theatre tickets (average £20 each) | GBP 80 |
| Cloakroom (2 coats) | GBP 2 |
| Snacks & drinks at Rivals Café | GBP 12 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 94 |
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.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
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