Motormouth Newsreader Johnathan Pie is back gasping for air in-between takes as he asks Hero or Villain? A question often asked and one that Pie hopes to answer in his brand-new live show which is heading to the Lowry Theatre between Sun 28 January - Sun 3 March 2024.

Join him as he celebrates the UK’s greatest heroes (Nurses / Gary Lineker / 24-hour off license proprietors) and takes a verbal blowtorch to its villains (The Tories / Cyclists).

Marvel in wonder as he kicks in The Establishment’s back doors and rifles through its kitchen cupboards.

Jonathan Pie is both a cult figure and a fictional character portrayed by wonderfully wry British comedian Tom Walker.

Written by Walker and Irish comedian Andrew Doyle, Pie is a political correspondent who rants angrily about British, American, and Australian politics, hilariously giving his true personal opinions before or after filming a scripted news segment.

Tickets Available Now: https://thelowry.com/whats-on/jonathan-pie-heroes-villains/

 “Mesmerising” Chortle ★★★★★

“A powerhouse performance” Evening Standard

“Smarter, sharper, angrier and funnier” The Times

“Jonathon Pie at his best” Total Entertainment

The Lowry, Salford 7th December 2023 to 7th January 2024

The smash-hit production of We're Going on a Bear Hunt comes to The Lowry for the Christmas season as part of its UK tour.

Sally Cookson's hugely inventive production set to Benji Bower's lively musical score is a mischievous celebration of play, utilising everyday objects and materials to capture the imagination and propel audiences into the world of Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury's much loved picture book.

Music, laughter, rhymes, rhythms and repetitions together with puppetry, paint, water and mud - not to mention a bear – we're not scared! – make this fun-filled adventure the perfect theatrical outing for all young families.

Join our intrepid family of adventurers and their musical dog as they wade through the swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river, the thick oozy squelchy mud and the swirling, whirling snowstorm, in search of a bear. Expect plenty of interaction and a few surprises along the way.

Michael Rosen says of the live theatre show: ''This production of We're Going on a Bear Hunt takes everyone on the journey - not under, not over, oh no - through it! - in a funny, exuberant and loving way. It's a show full of laughter, music, silliness and thrills that I promise you will excite and delight all young children. This is a must-go show."

We're Going on a Bear Hunt is presented by Kenny Wax Family Entertainment and is created by the critically acclaimed production team including director Sally Cookson, composer Benji Bower, designer Katie Sykes, lighting designer Tony Simpson, sound designer Jason Barnes and associate director and puppet designer Marc Parrett.

Neha Eapen plays Girl. Her theatre credits include Lottie in The Not so Grimm Twins (Wrongsemble), and Fairy Godmother in Cinderella (for PHA/Leeds Carriageworks), for which she won the Best Newcomer Award at The Pantomime Awards 2023.

Benedict Hastings returns to the company to play Boy. His theatrical credits include Stel & Wes Fight the Flood (Norwich Puppet Theatre), Frankenstein (Blackeyed Theatre), Zog (Freckle Productions), Sitting by Katherine Parkinson (Take Two Theatricals), We're Going on a Bear Hunt and What the Ladybird Heard (Kenny Wax Family Entertainment), 3 Guys Naked from the Waist Down (Finborough Theatre), Wolf Hall and Bring Up the Bodies (RSC), The Mermaid of Zennor (Moon on a Stick) and Being Human (Belgrade Theatre). Over the COVID-19 crisis, Benedict co-created Doorstep Puppet Theatre, bringing shadow puppet shows including The Little Mermaid Finds Her Voice, ROAR-punzel – Rapunzel, but with Dinosaurs and Who Killed Mr Punch? to households across London. Most recently, Benedict starred in the Olivier Award-winning Hey Duggee The Live Theatre Show, playing Duggee and Narrator.

Tim Hibberd returns to play Dad. His theatrical credits include The Snail and the Whale and Mr. Benn (Tall Stories), Paddington and Charlotte's Web (Polka Theatre), and Peasouper and Dusty Fruit (Rejects Revenge). His TV credits include Mr Fen in Topsy and Tim and Vincent Van Coconut in Art Attack.

Ben Hills returns to play Dog/Musician. He has worked as a singer with ITV, BBC and Fremantle on shows including BBC's I Can See Your Voice and ITV's Britain's Got Talent. He has toured as a professional musician since 2018, working on London's West End and internationally.

Ross McKenna joins the company as Understudy/ASM. His theatrical credits include Nick Bottom in A Midsummer Night's Dream (Erasmus Theatre), Luca in San Domino (Tristan Bates Theatre) and Smashed (Collingwood Learning). His credits whilst training include Brendan Behan in The Hostage, Gabriel Conroy in The Dead, Francis Fryer in Calamity Jane and Florizel in The Winter's Tale.

We're Going on a Bear Hunt is at The Lowry, Salford from Thursday 7th December 2023 to Sunday 7th January 2024. For more information and tickets visit www.thelowry.com.

LISTINGS

We're Going on a Bear Hunt

Thursday 7th December 2023 to Sunday 7th January 2024

THE LOWRY, SALFORD www.thelowry.com

ON SALE NOW thelowry.com/whats-on/were-going-on-a-bear-hunt/

Running time: 55 minutes, no interval    Most suitable for ages 3+

Show website www.bearhuntlive.com

Social media handles @bearhuntlive

Based on real-life moving and funny tales of motherhood and produced, written, directed and performed by mums

The REcreate Agency and Spin Arts presents the premiere production of The Good Enough Mums Club, the poignant and hilarious new musical based on women’s own stories of motherhood comes to The Lowry, Salford from Thursday 30th November to Saturday 2nd December. Co-commissioned by The Lowry, The Good Enough Mums Club is produced, written, directed and performed by mums, with the passionate team behind it spending the last decade bringing this production to fruition.

The cast of The Good Enough Mums Club is Rebecca Bernice Amissah (A Strange Loop, Daddy) as Michelle, Joanna Kirkland (Dear Evan Hansen, The Witches of Eastwick) as Bea, Amy Ross (Wicked, Heathers) as Sophie, Jade Samuels (Jumprov, MAWA) as Chantel, and Belinda Wollaston as Esme (JUDY!, MAMMA MIA!) with Gemma Atkins (MAMMA MIA!, Wicked) as Swing, and Cartier Fraser (The Buddy Holly Story, The Best of Wham) as Swing.

With a book and lyrics by Emily Beecher and music by Verity Quade, Chris Passey, The Good Enough Mums Club is directed by Sarah Meadows and Michelle Payne.

Not perfect? Join the club! From peeing on sticks to drooping tits, The Good Enough Mums Club is both a hysterical and heartbreaking show which shares the love and dispels the myths with enough wipes to mop the tears and clean away the snotty laughter. 

When the Council threatens to close their local playgroup, five women thrown together by motherhood overcome their isolation, loneliness, judgement and perfectionism to discover that they’re stronger as a group than as individuals, and that sometimes, being good enough is best.

Emily Beecher, an award-winning Co-Creative Director, writer, producer, performer, story consultant and proud single mama to Maisie, is the creator and Founding Mother of The Good Enough Mums Club - a musical that grew out of her experience with severe postnatal depression and postnatal psychosis. At the prompting of her therapist, Beecher began to journal her experiences while juggling the demands of a newborn. During 2014, a short community workshop version of The Good Enough Mums Club played to sold-out audiences. In the following years the team reworked the musical by meeting mothers from all over the country - from a mosque in Birmingham, to a pub in Leeds, to a school in the shadow of Grenfell - collecting their stories to ensure the show represents a variety of experiences of motherhood.

The Good Enough Mums Club is leading the way with its family-friendly working policies, which includes job shares, family friendly accommodation and children being welcome in the rehearsal rooms.

The production has been co-commissioned by The Lowry and Birmingham Hippodrome, with support from Arts Council England. 

Matthew Eames, Head of Theatres (Contemporary and Commissioning) at The Lowry, said: 

“I have seen firsthand the impact of The Good Enough Mums Club and it is clear this musical has superpowers! Watching the concert version of the show was incredible and The Lowry audiences more or less demanded that they get to see the whole show. We're delighted to comply and play a role in supporting a new musical to boot!”

 The Good Enough Mums Club welcomes children under 4 to its special relaxed baby & child-friendly matinees (although if your child is at the stage where they repeat everything they hear, you might want to consider this as the show is quite sweary!). Evening performances are strictly for those 12+.

The Good Enough Mums Club is at The Lowry, Salford from Thursday 30th November to Saturday 2nd December 2023. For more information and tickets visit www.thelowry.com.

LISTINGS

The Good Enough Mums Club

Thursday 30th November to Saturday 2nd December 2023

THE LOWRY, SALFORD www.thelowry.com

ON SALE NOW

thelowry.com/whats-on/the-good-enough-mums-club/

Running time: 2 hours with a 20-minute interval

•  Salford City Council will be hosting two family friendly events across Bonfire Night weekend 
•  Buile Hill Park event will take place on Saturday 4 November
•  Prince’s Park, Irlam event will take place on Sunday 5 November
•  Both events are FREE to attend 

Salford skies will be filled with colour this bonfire night weekend as the Salford Firework Weekend returns to the city. Local residents can enjoy some autumnal fun for the whole family and best of all, entry to both events is free. 

The weekend comprises two separate events complete with firework displays, with Buile Hill Park hosting on Saturday 4 November and the fun then moves to Prince’s Park, Irlam on Sunday 5 November.

The fun kicks off from 4pm at Buile Hill Park, with a variety of different activities. There will three separate firework displays throughout the night, ranging from the Little Sparks display, with low level fireworks, suitable for younger children, followed by the bigger Firecracker display and culminating with the main display at 7.30pm. 

This year for the first time ever, there will also be live music throughout the night, in between the displays. There’ll be performances from Krin with a combination of African rhythms and analogue synths, street smart indie-pop newcomer Alex Spencer and New York Brass Band bringing a New Orleans style party to the event, as well as Pops Roberts (Lovescene) hosting & DJing through the evening. 

There will also be a Fire Walk throughout the park, a display of glowing sculptures by local artist Lurid Ultra Hybrid, a choice of food and drink options available, an onsite funfair and the chance to toast marshmallows.

In Irlam, Prince’s Park will host the second of the weekend’s events, from 5pm on Sunday 5 November. There’ll be a traditional bonfire, another amazing firework display, as well as an onsite funfair and food and drink to enjoy. 

Councillor Barbara Bentham, Lead Member for Environment, Neighbourhoods, Sports and Leisure said:

“I’m sure residents will be looking forward to the range of traditional and new activities we have brought together this year. These events are a great way of bringing communities together and provide quality, low-cost experiences for families. Our aim is to make sure Salford residents have a safe and fun time this bonfire night and attending one of these organised events rather that hosting their own displays in their gardens is the best way to do that.”

Attendees are encouraged to use public transport to get to both events, or alternatively, parking at Buile Hill Park is available for £5 per car, but must be pre-booked in advance via the Visit Salford website. 

For more information on both events, go to – www.visitsalford.info/firework 

Full timetable for Buile Hill Park event:

4:00pm  - Gates open
                 - Funfair, Fire Walk and marshmallow toasting open
                 - LIVE STAGE: Pops Roberts (Lovescene) hosting & DJing through the evening

5:00pm  - LIVE STAGE: Krin – an unforgettable combination of African rhythms and analogue synths

5.30pm - Little Sparks Firework display – view from Little Sparks viewing area or firework viewing
                 area one

6.00pm - LIVE STAGE: Alex Spencer – street smart indie-pop newcomer

6.30pm - Firecracker firework display – view from firework viewing area one

7:00pm - LIVE STAGE: New York Brass Band – New Orleans style party powerhouse

7.30pm - Main firework show - view from firework viewing area one or two

8:00pm - LIVE STAGE: DJ Pops Roberts (Lovescene)

9:00pm - Gates close

The Lowry in Salford has welcomed the 100,000th visitor to its record-breaking free exhibition that celebrates the much-loved 30-year picture book partnership between Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.

Julia and Axel: Thirty Years of Favourite Stories celebrates the much-loved and longstanding collaboration between writer Julia Donaldson and illustrator Axel Scheffler (The Gruffalo, Zog, Room on the Broom, The Highway Rat, The Smeds and the Smoos, Stick Man and many more) and was curated by The Lowry in collaboration with publishers Alison Green Books, Scholastic Children’s Books and Macmillan Children’s Books.

The exhibition celebrates Julia and Axel’s brilliantly creative partnership and how this has developed over 30 years and has been visited by record-breaking numbers since it opened in June.

And last week’s half term saw the milestone of 100,000 visitors passed when 6-year-old Maggie Lockett from Greater Manchester visited the exhibition with her mum.

Maggie was presented with a Julia & Axel goodie bag that included a signed copy of The Gruffalo.

Michael Simpson, Director of Visual Arts at The Lowry says: 

“We have loved having so many children in the galleries over the last few months, and it’s been especially fun to have lots of families coming back many times!  Julia and Axel are such lovely people and have been so supportive every step of the way.  And the good news is we have a couple more surprises up our sleeve for Christmas so lots more to still look forward to and enjoy before the exhibition ends.”

Axel Scheffler says: 

“The Lowry exhibition is a wonderful family experience and I am delighted that they have now welcomed 100,000 visitors since 22nd July. What an achievement and I send all my congratulations to the Lowry team. It's amazing. When I think of all those families and children, many of them dressed up as their favourite characters, looking at my illustrations and learning about Julia's writing, I feel very proud.”   

Throughout the exhibition there are lots of fun opportunities for children to be creative themselves as they are guided to write their own stories, draw pictures, dress up, and play fun games inspired by the books.

And the Julia and Axel-themed fun is not confined to the Galleries space, with activities taking place throughout The Lowry. From selfie ops with a large Gruffalo statue outside The Lowry’s main entrance to earning a gold star at the Zog Academy in the Pier Eight lounge, and story sessions at The Highway Rat Storytelling Camp, and interactive role-play at The Gruffalo Play Kitchen, there’s loads happening at The Lowry for families for the duration of the exhibition.

The exhibition is free, but timeslots are required, which can be booked in advance on The Lowry website. They may also be available on arrival at The Lowry – however, these will be subject to demand on the day and availability may vary so booking in advance is recommended to ensure entry. At busy times a queueing system may be in place and last entry is 30 minutes before the galleries close.

The Galleries are open Tuesday to Friday 11am-5pm and Saturday & Sunday 10am-5pm.

For families with access requirements who would prefer to experience the Galleries in a calmer and less busy environment there is a relaxed hour every Sunday from 9am-10am.

The Lowry is closed on Mondays. For more information, and to book, visit: https://thelowry.com/whats-on/julia-and-axel-thirty-years-of-favourite-stories/

November scheduled dates for Age Friendly Salford's weekly Walk and Talk sessions have been released with events being held at a number of venues around the City.

Join the popular Walk & Talk sessions were you can explore the history of some of Salford's green and blue public spaces, meet new friends and have fun whilst keeping healthy and active.

The events are held each Wednesday of the month.

1st November - MediaCityUK

8th November - Parr Fold Park

15th November - Clifton Country Park

22nd November - Kersal Wetlands

29th November - Eccles Recreational Grounds

By engaging in these outdoor walks, you can enhance your health and wellbeing by 50%.

For more information, contact Tonicha Wallace on 07983884160.

Age Friendly Salford is a programme of work funded by Salford City Council to engage and support people to age well. The programme is delivered by a partnership of voluntary sector organisations, namely, Inspiring Communities Together, Age UK Salford and Salford CVS.

On the 11th hour of the 11th Day of the 11th month of November we traditionally come together as a nation in collective remembrance of those who made the ultimate sacrifice in their selfless defence of the realm.

It is a day during which we pause to reflect and pay our respects to those brave souls with a customary two minute silence and the laying of wreaths upon the plinths of our local cenotaphs..

The Royal British Legion has been at the forefront of those traditions with it's unwavering support of remembrance Sunday services.

As the national custodian of remembrance, the Legion also believes that when 11 November falls on a day other than Sunday, remembrance should be brought into the everyday life of the nation on those days as well.

The revival of support for observance of this demonstrates that, despite the passing of the years and the declining number of veterans, the nation still feels strongly about remembrance.

This year Remembrance Sunday falls on the following day, the 12th of November.

On remembrance Sunday there will be various parades and services throughout the city:

• Salford – Albert Bentley Place, The Crescent - The parade will assemble and leave from the A6 Road outside the Old Pint Pot Public House, Salford at 10.30am. Parade will assemble at the cenotaph at 10.40am. Service commences at 10.45am.
• Swinton – Chorley Road, Swinton - The parade will assemble and leave Morrisons Car Park, Swinton Hall Road at 10.30am. Parade will assemble at the cenotaph at 10.40am. Service commences at 10.45am.
• Eccles – Church Street, Eccles - The parade will assemble and leave the car park at the back of Eccles Town Hall, King Street at 10.40am. The parade will assemble at the cenotaph at 10.45am. Service commences at 10.50am.
• Irlam – Princes Park, Liverpool Road, Irlam - The parade will assemble and leave from outside Irlam Catholic Social Club, Liverpool Road at 10.20am. Parade will assemble at the cenotaph at 10.40am. Service will start at 10.45am.
• Walkden – Parrfold Park, Walkden Road, Walkden - The parade will assemble and leave the British Legion, Wilfred Road, Walkden at 9.30am and march to St Paul’s Church, Manchester Road, Walkden for a short service. The parade will reassemble outside the church at 10.30am and parade to the cenotaph at Parrfold Park, Walkden Road for wreath laying and two minutes silence. 
• Little Hulton – Parish Church of St Paul’s Peel, Peel Lane, Little Hulton - A church service will be held at 10.30am at St Paul’s Peel followed by wreath laying at the Cenotaph.

There is a Halloween themed Party going on at LightOaks Park on the 28th October.

The fun starts at 3pm and ends at 5pm.

Follow the Halloween Trail, Dress up in Fancy Dress and enter the best pumpkin competition.

There will also be plenty of games to keep the kids occupied as well as a parade through the park.

Good luck finding the many Halloween themed Salford Rocks.

This is a FREE event.

Venue: LightOaks Park, Salford.

SPELLBINDING SHOW PLAYS THE LOWRY FROM TUESDAY 5 DECEMBER 2023 TO SATURDAY 6 JANUARY 2024 

The countdown is on to the award-winning play Life of Pi arriving at The Lowry, Salford this festive season.

The show, which features ‘Richard Parker’ a life-size puppeteered Royal Bengal Tiger, will be at The Lowry from Tuesday 5 December 2023 to Saturday 6 January 2024.

Based on Yann Martel’s winner of the Man Booker Prize= that sold over fifteen million copies worldwide – Life of Pi is a breath-taking new theatrical adaptation of an epic journey of endurance and hope.

After a cargo ship sinks in the middle of the vast Pacific Ocean, there are five survivors stranded on a single lifeboat – a hyena, a zebra, an orangutan, a sixteen-year-old boy, and a 450-pound Royal Bengal tiger. Time is against them, nature is harsh, who will survive?

Divesh Subaskaran is making his professional debut in the central role of Pi. He is joined by Antony Antunes, who performs as Tiger Hind / Cook / Father Martin, Adwitha Arumugam as Pi Alternate, Bhawna Bhawsar as Lulu Chen/Mrs Biology Kumar, Ralph Birtwell as Mamaji/ Admiral Balbir Singh, Kriss Dosanjh as Father, Sebastian Goffin as Tiger Head, Akash Heer as Tiger Head,  Romina Hytten as Tiger Heart and Hind,  Katie Kennedy-Rose as Tiger Heart and Hind, Aizah Khan as Tiger Heart and Hind, Chand Martinez as Pandit-ji,  Keshini Misha as Rani, Goldy Notay as Amma, Sharita Oomeer as Lulu Chen / Mrs Biology Kumar, Kate Rowsell as Tiger Heart and Hind, Lilian Tsang as Mrs Okamoto/Zaida Khan/Ships Captain, Peter Twose and Tiger Head/Voice of Richard Parker/Cook/Father Martin. 

‘IT WILL MAKE YOU BELIEVE IN THEATRE. A TRIUMPH.’ - SUNDAY TIMES

Life of Pi first opened to critical acclaim at the Crucible theatre in Sheffield in 2019. International commitments for the show include its North American Premiere at the American Repertory Theater at Harvard University where it ran from 4^th December 2022 to 29^th January 2023, followed by its Broadway premiere at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theater where it opened on 9^th March 2024. A European tour will follow the tour of the UK and Ireland and there are plans underway for a tour of Australia and Asia.

Life of Pi won five Olivier Awards in April 2022. As well as Best New Play, and Best Actor for Hiran Abeysekera (the original Pi); in an historic first for the Olivier Awards - the seven performers who puppeteer the Tiger ‘Richard Parker’ were collectively awarded Best Actor in a Supporting Role. The production also picked up awards for set (Tim Hatley, Nick Barnes and Finn Caldwell), and lighting design (Tim Lutkin and Andrzej Goulding).

 Opening to celebratory reviews on Broadway in March the production won Tony Awards in the following categories: Best Scenic Design, Best Lighting Design and Best Sound Design.

‘THE PUPPETRY IS OUT OF THIS WORLD’ - DAILY MAIL

The production is directed by Max Webster, Set and Costume Designer is Tim Hatley, the Puppet Designers are Nick Barnes and Finn Caldwell, the Puppet and Movement Director is Finn Caldwell, the Video Designer is Andrzej Goulding, the Lighting Designer is Tim Lutkin, the Sound Designer is Carolyn Downing, the Composer is Andrew T Mackay, Dramaturgy is by Jack Bradley, the Casting Director is Polly Jerrold, the Associate Director is Leigh Toney, the Associate Puppetry and Movement Director is Scarlet Wilderink, the Associate Set Designer is Ross Edwards, the Associate Puppet Designer is Caroline Bowman,  the Costume Supervisor is Sabrina Cuniberto and the Props Supervisor is Ryan O’Conner.  

‘EVERYTHING ABOUT THIS PRODUCTION IS AMAZING.’ - OBSERVER

Life of Pi is produced by Simon Friend in association with Playing Field and Tulchin/Bartner.

Event Listing

Life of Pi

Tuesday 5 December 2023 – Monday 6 January 2024

https://thelowry.com/whats-on/life-of-pi/

Accessible Performances

BSL Interpreted | Wed 13 Dec 2023 at 7.30pm

Audio Described | Thu 14 Dec 2023 at 2pm | Touch Tour at 12.30pm

Audio Described | Sat 23 Dec 2023 at 7.30pm | Touch Tour at 6pm

Captioned | Wed 27 Dec 2023 at 7.30pm

BSL Interpreted | Wed 3 Jan 2024 at 7.30pm

To book accessible performances, please email access@thelowry.com or call 0161 876 2183

Salford skies will be filled with colour this bonfire night weekend as the Salford Firework Weekend returns to the city. Local residents can enjoy some autumnal fun for the whole family and best of all, entry to both events is free.

The weekend comprises two separate events complete with firework displays, with Buile Hill Park hosting on Saturday 4 November and the fun then moves to Prince's Park, Irlam on Sunday 5 November.

The fun kicks off from 4pm at Buile Hill Park, with a variety of different activities. There will three separate firework displays throughout the night, ranging from the Little Sparks display, with low level fireworks, suitable for younger children, followed by the bigger Firecracker display and culminating with the main display at 7.30pm.

This year for the first time ever, there will also be live music throughout the night, in between the displays. There'll be performances from Krin with a combination of African rhythms and analogue synths, street smart indie-pop newcomer Alex Spencer and New York Brass Band bringing a New Orleans style party to the event, as well as Pops Roberts (Lovescene) hosting & DJing through the evening.

There will also be a Fire Walk throughout the park, a display of glowing sculptures by local artist Lurid Ultra Hybrid, a choice of food and drink options available, an onsite funfair and the chance to toast marshmallows.

In Irlam, Prince's Park will host the second of the weekend's events, from 5pm on Sunday 5 November. There'll be a traditional bonfire, another amazing firework display, as well as an onsite funfair and food and drink to enjoy.

Councillor Barbara Bentham, Lead Member for Environment, Neighbourhoods, Sports and Leisure said:

"I'm sure residents will be looking forward to the range of traditional and new activities we have brought together this year. These events are a great way of bringing communities together and provide quality, low-cost experiences for families. Our aim is to make sure Salford residents have a safe and fun time this bonfire night and attending one of these organised events rather that hosting their own displays in their gardens is the best way to do that."

Attendees are encouraged to use public transport to get to both events, or alternatively, parking at Buile Hill Park is available for £5 per car, but must be pre-booked in advance via the Visit Salford website.

For more information on both events, go to – www.visitsalford.info/firework

Francis House Children's Hospice is bringing the magic of Christmas to a pop-up shop in Quayside MediaCityUK by filling it with 40 unique Christmas trees.

The Festival of Christmas trees opens on Saturday, October 28, and aims to encourage members of the public to place bids the unique trees, each packed with vouchers, signed football shirts, hampers, vouchers and handmade gifts.

The annual project involves businesses, community groups and individuals coming together in the decoration of a one-off Christmas tree which will be auctioned off to raise funds for the Greater Manchester hospice.

Based in Didsbury, Francis House provides respite care, homecare, end of life care and a range of other services to the families of children and young people with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions.

Participants this year include JP Goldman, Cardinal Global Logistics, Beaverbrooks the Jewellers, Morrisons, Uplift Knitters, LIFT-Financial, Amaranth, DLA Piper and Lowbury Construction.

The event this year is sponsored by Towers Business Park and Quayside MediaCityUK.

Julie Williams, fundraising officer at Francis House said:

"Anyone visiting the display is in for a real treat. With the help of our tree sponsors there is something to tempt everyone to place a bid and be in with the chance of taking a truly unique tree home for Christmas.

"We provide the tree and lights, and the rest is left up to the imagination of our fantastic sponsors. Cardinal Global Logistics have created a bright and beautiful Barbie tree and the Thomason family have put together two trees bursting with football, gaming and food and drink goodies."

Bids can be placed on each tree for five weeks in the run up to Christmas, either in store or online at www.festivaloftrees.co.uk

A range of Christmas decorations, gifts and cards are also on sale in the shop along with the opportunity to win a raffle prize and take part in a lucky dip.

With some trees fetching hundreds of pounds each it is hoped the event this year will exceed the £25,000 in profit raised in 2022.

The shop can be found on the first floor of Quayside MediaCityUK, formerly the Lowry Outlet and runs from October 28 until December 3.

To view a gallery of the trees and to discover more visit www.festivaloftrees.co.uk

Now in their 21st year, Cassa Pancho's Ballet Black returns to The Lowry, Salford from 31st October – 2nd November with a double bill of original ballets in Ballet Black: Pioneers.

This new double bill features ballets from two of Ballet Black's best-known, award-winning collaborators, Will Tuckett (Depouillement, 2009, Orpheus, 2011) and Mthuthuzeli November (Ingoma, 2019, The Waiting Game, 2021).

Will Tuckett's Then Or Now, originally created in 2020, blends classical ballet, music, and the poetry of Adrienne Rich to ask the question: in times like these, where do we each belong? 

"...the piece feels above all like a call for respect across any and all divides." The Telegraph, 2021

The second piece, a world premiere by Mthuthuzeli November, Nina: By Whatever Means, is inspired by the artistry and activism of Nina Simone. November weaves a skilful picture of Simone's turbulent and influential life to create an emotional and empowering love letter to this legendary icon.

Cassa Pancho MBE, Founder, CEO & Artistic Director Ballet Black, said:

"Every year, I describe how delighted I am to present new works and this, our 21st year, is no different. Originally created to premiere in 2020, this ballet was delayed by the pandemic, and only had a very short run across four theatres in 2021. One of the joys of having work created specifically for Ballet Black is getting to revisit it with the choreographer, and we've had fun having Will back in the studio to restage this beautiful ballet.

It's thrilling to be able to bring Nina: By Whatever Means to life. It's part of our growing collection of ballets that depict the Black experience through classical ballet, creating a new and relevant repertoire for audiences of all ages, backgrounds, and cultures. It is the realisation of a dream Mthuthuzeli had to create a love letter to Nina Simone, and I cannot wait to share this programme with you all."

Ballet Black: Pioneers is at The Lowry, Salford from Tuesday 31st October - Thursday 2nd November 2023. For more information and tickets visit www.thelowry.com.

Photo: Ballet Black, By Whatever Means, (L-R) Helga Paris Morales, Sayaka Ichikawa, Isabela Coracy, Rosanna Lindsey & Taraja Hudson - Image credit Nick Guttridge.

LISTINGS INFORMATION 

The Lowry, Salford

Tuesday 31st October - Thursday 2nd November 2023

On sale now

Running time:

Then Or Now: 35 minutes (approx)

Interval: 20 minutes

Nina: By Whatever Means: 40 minutes (approx)

Age guidance: 7+

Swinton Precinct Detectives - Wednesday 25th October 2023 - 10am – 12pm or 2pm – 4pm

Help Lowri piece together Swinton Square’s past using old photos, a few rumours and your own personal memories!

The workshop will comprise of a short walk followed by the making of a massive, collective blueprint of the precinct with all that we have discovered.

Whether you’re new to the area or interested in local history, this should be a fun, interesting investigation of the world around us. Everyone is welcome, no experience necessary, amateur sleuths welcome!

Precinct Extras - Thursday 26th October 2023 - 10am – 12pm or 2pm – 4pm

Lowri is recreating old photographs she has found of Swinton Square but needs help staging them! Using photos from Salford Local History Library, we will choose images we like, to try and trace exactly where they happened and pose.

Using a few props and hints of costume we will look at some of the anonymous figures of Swinton’s past, and poetically bring them to life. Anyone can take part, there will be a gentle warm up, chance to dress up, explore the precinct and create an image.

Free admission and refreshments. Please dress for the weather as some of the sessions take place outside. The space is wheelchair accessible. Just turn up on the day. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

If you have any questions, please contact: Lowri on 07886845515.

The Lowry's Creative Writing Challenge, an annual competition for children aged 7-11 from across Greater Manchester returns.

Aimed at amplifying the voices of children from across Greater Manchester and celebrating children's creativity and imagination Creative Writing Challenge categories include poetry, short story, and stage text.

In each category, there will be runners-up, a 1st place winner & 2nd place winner, plus a special Founders Prize. All shortlisted children will receive feedback from the professional judging panel – to be announced soon!

The Creative Writing Challenge has been made possible thanks to the generous support of founder Beryl Jones, who along with her husband Trevor is a Gold Patron of The Lowry.

Jenny Riding, Director of Learning and Engagement at The Lowry, said:

"The future of the children and young people of our communities is at the heart of everything that we do in our Learning & Engagement programme at The Lowry and the need for support in education post-pandemic and now with the cost-of-living crisis is greater than ever.  We know that improving literacy and oracy skills and raising their aspirations and confidence at this crucial moment in their lives, can have a lifelong impact.

"We were blown away by the imagination and creativity of the entries to our first Creative Writing Challenge and we cannot wait to see the submissions this time.

"We would also like to take this opportunity to extend our continued thanks to Beryl Jones for her generosity."

The challenge showcases the amazing talent and potential that Greater Manchester children have to offer and will culminate in a special celebration event at The Lowry, Salford in 2024. The first Creative Writing Challenge celebration event was presented by Manchester-based actor, writer, and director Carla Henry, with performances by poet Tony Walsh.

The Lowry's aim is for the challenge to be accessible to as many children as possible and will accept entries in a variety of formats including written format, voice recordings or video.

The Creative Writing Challenge is a 5-year project. Related to the competition a targeted support scheme is available to primary schools in Salford and Greater Manchester. For any schools interested in accessing this or booking your own Creative Writing Workshop at The Lowry register your interest by emailing getcreative@thelowry.com. The Lowry has also developed free downloadable lesson plans for Years 3, 4, 5 and 6 which can be accessed here visit thelowry.com/creativewritingchallenge

The deadline for entries is Friday 26th April 2024

The Lowry's Creative Writing Challenge is delivered in partnership with the National Literacy Trust, an independent charity dedicated to raising literacy levels across the UK.

Photo: Creative Writing Challenge 2023 Celebration Event © Phil Tragen

To celebrate the distinguished service history of the Gazelle helicopter, and mark its withdrawal from service at the end of this month, 5 Regt AAC will be conducting a final fly past through the UK, Tomorrow, Monday 23rd October 2023.

The farewell flight will be departing from, stopping at or overflying, UK locations that have played an important role across the Gazelle’s service.

At 11:30am tomorrow helicopters from the fleet will be doing a flypast of City Airport Manchester (Barton Aerodrome) before heading off to their next location at RAF Shawbury. This will most likely be the last time the public gets to see them in flight service before being decommissioned.

Spectators and enthusiasts are urged to get their a little early to secure parking.

The Aérospatiale/Westlands Gazelle entered service 6 July 1974 and has provided valiant service to UK Defence in the UK including Northern Ireland; Germany, Hong Kong, Falklands, Iraq, Kosovo, Canada, Kenya, Belize and Cyprus. 

The Gazelle has, at one time or another, served in every arm of the UK Armed Forces in training, reconnaissance, battlefield communication, direction of artillery fire, casualty evacuation and anti-tank roles. 

Regarding a successor to the Gazelle, An Army spokesperson said: 

“We operate a range of aircraft to meet our operational requirements and any replacement for Gazelle will be framed by the 2021 Defence Rotary Wing Strategy and evolving operational demands.”

Regarding a successor to the Gazelle, An Army spokesperson said:  

“We operate a range of aircraft to meet our operational requirements and any replacement for Gazelle will be framed by the 2021 Defence Rotary Wing Strategy and evolving operational demands.”

Photo: Army AirCorps

The name Andy Shorrocks may be new to you, but trust me this man is a bona fide music legend, one of the organisers of The Deeply Vale Festival which ran from 1976 -1979 and saw such bands as, The Fall, The Ruts, Fast Cars, Misty In Roots and a host more.

He then formed the punk band,  Accident On The East Lancs,  with two singles, We Want It Legalised/Tell Me What Ya Mean, and Back End Of Nowhere/Rat Race, on his own label, Roach Records, and an album Shotguns and Hotshots on Cargo Records, all recorded at the famous Cargo Studios in Rochdale.

The single, We Want it Legalised has gone on to achieve cult status in the record collectors world and changes hands for plenty of money... check your collections!

In 2004 he released his first solo album, "Walking In familiar Footsteps" featuring Mick Taylor, ex Rolling Stones guitarist, and Paul Jones of The Manfred's and Blues Band on harp and also featured Bobby Vee's sons Jeff and Tommy on drums and bass, that is some serious musicians to not only rope in but name drop! as if that was not enough street cred he than did many supports for Mick Taylor, in and around London, and also for the likes of Curved Air, Steve Gibbons, The Yardbirds, The Strawbs and many others... impressed? I certainly am!

Fast forward to the present day,Andy has just released a triple vinyl album...my favourite format... Country Rock n Roll n Durty Blues, real, raw, authentic Americana style music and hr will be playing tracks from this and more this Friday, 20th October. 8pm at The Club, 11 Worsley Rd, Swinton.

If you like dirty, swampy, blues, Cajun, rock and roll with a smidgen of soul (and if you don't you should check your pulse) then is the must see gig for you, a real treat for music fans, miss it at your peril

A larger-than-life character, a zany look at climate change and a heart-stopping romance, arrive in Salford this autumn as Opera North brings its Green Season to The Lowry.

The Green Season has seen Opera North investigating how to stage opera as sustainably as possible by interrogating supply chains, lighting rigs, touring logistics and costume designs, and using the sets and props from previous productions kept at the Company's Scenic Stores in Leeds.

Falstaff, Verdi's take on Shakespeare's lovable rogue, is up first on Wednesday 15 November. In this new production, the action is transported to the 1980s where the impecunious Falstaff has his eye on a couple of rich wives as his passport to a brighter future. Unfortunately for him, the ladies are no fools and have already decided to teach him a lesson he will never forget.

After playing Parson in The Cunning Little Vixen, Henry Waddington returns to Opera North to take on the title role and says: 

"Fat, old, lazy, selfish, lecherous, broke and pretty cunning, Sir John Falstaff is one of the greatest comic characters in theatre so to get a chance to perform this role is both a joy and an honour." An audio-described and signed matinee performance offers another chance to see the show at 2pm on Saturday 18 November.

On Thursday 16 November is a brand-new work titled Masque of Might which 'repurposes' the music of baroque composer Purcell, bringing together the well-known and rarely-performed to create a tale of environmental depredation at the hands of an evil dictator. Using the format of a masque, the seventeenth century's version of a variety show.

Sir David Pountney has created a witty parable which both questions and celebrates our relationship with the natural world: 

"I very much hope to offer the audience a serious evening delivered with a twinkle, and of course a sumptuous banquet of less familiar Purcell music."

Friday 17 November is the date for romance as Puccini's La rondine takes to the stage. As the composer of La bohème and Madama Butterfly, Puccini is no stranger to passion in all its guises. In La rondine (The Swallow), Magda, the mistress of a wealthy banker, takes flight with the young Ruggero risking everything for her heart's desire – but will there be a fairytale ending to her pursuit of true love? James Hurley directs this new production which whisks audiences from the stylish salons of 1930s Paris to the carefree world of the French Riviera. Soprano Galina Averina sings Magda alongside tenor Sébastien Guèze as Ruggero.

Set designer Leslie Travers is an Opera North regular - designing the sets for all three productions has involved revisiting much of his previous work: "I love this history of the shows we've done together, and I've loved giving them another life for the Green Season. Falstaff, for example, features windows from Figaro which we've resized and adapted, the sky from Orpheus at the back, and there are shelves full of objects that frame and comment on the action and reappear as elements in the sets of the other two operas."

Opera North's Green Season will be at The Lowry from Wednesday 15 November to Saturday 18 November.

LISTINGS:

THE LOWRY, SALFORD

Wed 15 Nov       7.00pm                Falstaff

Thu 16 Nov         7.00pm                Masque of Might

Fri 17 Nov           7.00pm                La rondine

Sat 18 Nov          2.00pm                Falstaff  (Audio described / Signed)

https://thelowry.com/opera-north/

The Lowry, Salford - Tuesday 5th December 2023 to Sunday 7th January 2024

The incredible cast has been announced for the UK tour of award-winning musical Fantastically Great Women Who Changed the World, which comes to The Lowry, Salford from Tuesday 5th December 2023 to Sunday 7th January 2024.

This empowering pop musical, from one of the producers of the worldwide sensation SIX, is based on the popular book by Suffragette relative Kate Pankhurst. 

Remarkable – and often forgotten – women from history are lifted from the pages of Kate Pankhurst’s beloved book and brought gloriously to life on stage, including Rosa Parks, Amelia Earhart, Marie Curie, Mary Seacole, Frida Kahlo, Jane Austen and Pankhurst’s own relative Emmeline. 

When inquisitive heroine Jade breaks away from her school trip to the local museum to peek at the Gallery of Greatness, she meets iconic women from the past, whose actions and lives changed the world as we know it, including explorers, scientists, artists and secret agents. 

This enthralling, heart-warming musical is full of incredible characters, inspirational moments and a soundtrack that packs a popstar punch. 

The fantastically great cast includes Elena Breschi (Kindertransport, Nottingham Playhouse, SIX, Norwegian Cruise Line; Locked Up Abroad, National Geographic); Jennifer Caldwell (SIX, UK tour; American Idiot, UK tour; Mamma Mia!, West End); Georgia Grant-Anderson (Secret Life of Boys, CBBC; Demon Dentist, UK tour; Beauty and the Beast, Lighthouse Poole); Chlöe Hart (Wicked and Kinky Boots, West End; SIX, UK tour; Girlfriends, ITV); and Leah Vassell (West Side Story, Krizanke Theatre; SIX, West End).  Millie Kiss (White Christmas, Liverpool Empire; The Cursed, LD Entertainment; The Date, Candid Broad Productions); Summer Priest (Get Up Stand Up!, West End; Heathers, UK tour) and Rachel Seirian (Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, West End and Los Angeles; Strictly: It Takes Two, BBC; A Christmas Carol, RSC) round out the cast.

The creative team behind this uplifting stage show consists of renowned dramatist Chris Bush (Standing at the Sky’s Edge, National Theatre; Faustus: That Damned Woman, Headlong); with music by UK No.1 hit songwriter Miranda Cooper, whose songs include Sound of the Underground, Round Round and The Promise, and Jennifer Decilveo, and live arrangements by Jen Green (Beverley Knight; Pixie Lott). 

The director is Amy Hodge (Mr Gum and The Dancing Bear – The Musical!, National Theatre), designer Joanna Scotcher (Emilia, Shakespeare’s Globe/Vaudeville Theatre), choreographer Dannielle ‘Rhimes’ Lecointe (Dick Whittington, National Theatre), lighting designer Zoe Spurr (Emilia, Shakespeare’s Globe/Vaudeville Theatre), sound designer Carolyn Downing (Summer & Smoke, Almeida/Duke of York’s Theatre) and co-sound designer Rob Bettle (Frozen: The Musical, Theatre Royal Drury Lane; Billy Elliot, UK tour; One Man, Two Guvnors, Theatre Royal Haymarket).

Event Listing:

Fantastically Great Women Who Changed the World

The Lowry (Quays Theatre)

Tuesday 5th December to Sunday 7th January 2023

Age Recommendation: 7+

Accessible Performances:

BSL Interpreted | Saturday 6 January 2024, 4pm

Audio Described by Caroline Burn | Wednesday 3 January 2024, 7.30pm. Touch Tour at 6.30pm

Relaxed Performance | Thursday 4 January 2024, 7.30pm

https://thelowry.com/whats-on/fantastically-great-women-who-changed-the-world/

This year's Firewalk will take place on 5th November 2023 at their Little Hulton hospice, and the price of registration has just been slashed from £30 to £15!

Everyone who takes part will be in the safe hands of a Blaze ‘Fire Master’ instructor who will take you through a motivational Fear Buster session prior to walking across 20ft of burning wood embers with bare feet, helping you to leap into this challenge feet first.

Marie Foster, Innovation and Digital Fundraiser at St Ann’s Hospice, took part in the Firewalk in 2021. Marie says:

“I’ve worked for St Ann’s Hospice for the last five years. I took on the Firewalk to prove to myself I could do it, and absolutely loved the challenge!

“A few years ago my sister raised money for another charity and did a Firewalk, so I wanted to prove to myself that if she could do it, I could too.

“Whenever I tell people I took part in this challenge they always ask me whether it hurts, and it honestly doesn’t – but there’s no doubt that it’s very hot!”

Each person who takes part has a sponsorship target of £150, and the Firewalk is open to anyone over the age of 14 (under-18s must be accompanied by an adult).

Marie says:

“You get to see the fire being lit which makes the challenge very real very quickly, but it’s great to be involved in all aspects of the event.

“I wanted to take on a challenge for St Ann’s Hospice to raise money for a charity close to my heart, and enjoyed doing this with my friend as it was a shared experience between us.

“I had a lot of comments from people saying I was mad to be doing such a crazy challenge, but I’d recommend it to everyone!”

Imagine how you will feel after Firewalking – if you can walk on fire, what else can you achieve if you put your mind to it?

For more information visit www.sah.org.uk/firewalk or contact the Events Team on 0161 498 3631 or events@sah.org.uk.

You are invited to take part in the fun at one or all of the  'Open Mic' nights which are being held at the Monton Bowling and Social Club.

The events will be hosted by James Dolan and ALL acts receive a FREE pint AFTER performing.

Dates:

• Friday October 20th
• Friday November 10th
• Saturday December 2nd

Time: 7PM

The club was formed in 1896, although thought to exist less formally from at least 1876.

Monton Bowling club was first registered as a club on 28th October 1896 although it is thought to have existed less formally from around 1876.

It was formed at that time by 7 local businessmen, which included 2 councillors and at that time provision was made for additional tennis courts although they no longer exist.

The friends of Buile Hill Park are inviting you and yours to head on over to the Pavilion within the adjoining Seedley Park this month for a Pumpkin Carving session.

This coming Wednesday 25th October between 12:20pm and 3:30pm.

The Pavilion is home to Seedley Community Cafe and is a volunteer run project supporting each other to create a welcoming space for friendly likeminded people.

Weather providing, on October 26th, Buile Hill Mansion Association (BHMA) is inviting you to join them in the park as they dare to look up into the vastness of space and enjoy the beauty of the night sky above Salford.

On Thursday 26th October, between the hours of 6pm and 8pm, you are invited to come and join the association and their friends at Salford Astronomical Society (SAS) for a guided tour of the universe, during which (weather permitting) you can enjoy close up views of the moon and the beautiful gas giant Saturn though society range of telescopes, plus many more stunning deep sky objects above Salford. (NB: Remember not to mention the gag about Flynny's wallet being a black hole).

The Salford Astronomical Society or SAS as I prefer to call the crack team of astro boffins, has operated from it's purpose built observatory on Chaseley field in Weaste since it's opening by none other than the legendary Patrick Moore himself in October 1971, but the society can track its ancestry back almost a decade further, having been founded by local enthusiast, Arthur Taylor who oddly discovered he was not the only one in Salford that liked staring up at the skies. A lot has changed since then, light pollution for one, but the society is still going strong today.

The observatory holds the coveted 18inch telescope which was donated to them by Jodrell Bank radio observatory in Cheshire, which has recently undergone refurbishment after decades of use by society members. The society and observatory is going from strength to strength, and is currently fundraising to raise cash towards finally having running water and sanitation installed under the hallowed dome.

We have no idea what they did before when caught short but there are lots of trees surrounding the observatory building?

This looks to be an amazing night of science and fun, hosted by none other than the wonderful BHMA who are looking forward to the reopening of another of Salford's iconic buildings as work is soon to get underway on transforming the old mining museum back into the glorious mansion it once was, a venue for weddings and community events.

Please note, by the nature of it being held outdoors at night, this event is subject to the weather and may need to be cancelled at short notice. We have put a good word in for fair weather but it is not guaranteed.

Celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, Ailey 2 – the second company of the iconic Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater –returns The Lowry, Salford on 13 & 14 October, its first visit there since 2011. The company’s astonishing young dancers are among the most talented of their generation and the company is renowned for merging their spirit and energy with the creative vision of today’s most outstanding choreographers. The result is captivating performances of grace, strength and soul – shot through with the unique Ailey spirit.

Ailey 2’s new artistic director Francesca Harper, herself an internationally-renowned performer and choreographer, has put together an exhilarating repertoire by a diverse range of choreographers which includes a timeless classic from Alvin Ailey.

Revelations, the company’s signature piece, was choreographed by Ailey when he was only 29 years old in 1960. A life-changing work, it has been seen by more than 23 million people in 71 countries, more than any other modern dance work. Using African American spirituals, song-sermons, gospel songs and holy blues, Revelations explores the deepest reaches of the soul. Ailey said that one of America’s richest treasures was the cultural heritage of the African American and this enduring classic is a tribute both to that heritage and Ailey’s genius.

The company will perform the intensely propulsive central section of William Forsythe’s 1989 work, Enemy in the Figure. The choreography is driven by Thom Willem’s percussive and rhythmic electronic score which also influences the radical use of light and shadow in its design. This excerpt puts the formidable dance skills of the Ailey 2 dancers on fine display, giving their craft and vitality an invigorating framework.

Robert Battle is Artistic Director of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. His 2001 classic The Hunt is a primal ritual with a distinctly urban feel fuelled by a thundering percussion soundtrack by Les Tambours du Bronx. This athletic work, originally choreographed for six male dancers, explores the relationship between modern sports and the rites of the gladiators, revealing the predatory side of human nature and the primitive thrill of the hunt. Battle found inspiration for the work in his background in martial arts.

Francesca Harper created her futuristic work Freedom Series on the company in 2021. Inspired by her Ailey homecoming, she has created a landscape of memories, a hybrid world where the past strives to influence the future. Developed in collaboration with the Ailey 2 dancers, Harper’s work examines identity and community. This excerpt is danced to a montage of acoustic and electronic sounds. Freedom Series’ unexpected twists and turns bring tender moments to its intrinsic ferocity.

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and Ailey 2 have built powerful legacies which have impacted generations. New Ailey 2 artistic director Francesca Harper embodies this heritage. She took her first dance steps at The Ailey School, the official school of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, where her mother Denise Jefferson was director from 1984-2010. Harper aims to bring fresh perspectives to Ailey’s legacy, while nurturing new creative voices and propelling the company forward.

Ailey 2 has an extensive community outreach programme including masterclasses, open rehearsals and workshops alongside special projects being hosted by member venues as part of the Ailey Project UK.

The dancers of Ailey 2 for the 2023/24 season are: Andrew Bryant; Spencer Everett; Jaryd Farcon; Maya Finman-Palmer; Patrick Gamble; Alfred L. Jordan II; Kiri Moore; Corinth Moulterie; Kali Marie Oliver; Tamia Strickland; Kayla Mei-Wan Thomas; and Maggy van den Heuvel.

Ailey 2 is at The Lowry, Salford on Friday 13th and Saturday 14th October 2023. For more information and tickets visit https://.thelowry.com.

Elm Bank are hosting a fundraising evening here at the Eccles Masonic Lodge, in aid of Salford Loaves & Fishes and you are invited to come and join them to support this local good cause

You can expect to enjoy a 3 course meal cooked by their own chef, a night of entertainment and some fantastic raffle prizes, keep an eye on our social media as we reveal the prizes you could win.

The event is to take place on 11th November 2023 from 7pm onwards.

To RSVP and book a table, contact mail@elm-bank.co.uk

Ticket price is only £25 per person and comes with a three course meal, raffle and auction.

Jenni Smith, CEO of Loaves and Fishes, said:

"We can't thank Elm-Bank . Event centre and Eccles Charitable Trust for hosting this, they have chosen us as a local charity to support this year.

"It's going to be a fantastic night, please come and join us"

Location: Eccles Masonic Hall, Elm Bank, 46 Half Edge Lane, Eccles, M30 9BA

About Loaves and Fishes

In the heart of Salford, Greater Manchester, there exists a remarkable organization that has been quietly making a profound impact on the lives of vulnerable individuals and families for over three decades. Salford Loaves and Fishes, often referred to simply as "Loaves and Fishes," is a shining beacon of hope and compassion in the community, offering more than just food to those in need.

Founded in 1986 by Maureen Boylan and a group of dedicated volunteers, Salford Loaves and Fishes initially began as a small soup kitchen providing hot meals to people experiencing homelessness. However, it soon evolved into something much more significant than just a place to get a warm meal. Today, it is a multifaceted social outreach program that extends a helping hand to people from all walks of life facing various forms of hardship.

The organization's name, "Loaves and Fishes," is a reference to the biblical story of the miraculous feeding of the multitude with just a few loaves of bread and fish. Much like the story, Salford Loaves and Fishes works wonders with limited resources, transforming them into a lifeline for those in need.

One of the organization's core initiatives is its daily meal service. Volunteers prepare and serve nourishing meals to hundreds of individuals, offering not only sustenance but also a sense of community and belonging. These meals provide warmth and comfort to people who may have nowhere else to turn.

Beyond food provision, Salford Loaves and Fishes offers a range of services aimed at addressing the root causes of homelessness and poverty. They provide advice, support, and referrals to help individuals access housing, healthcare, addiction treatment, and employment services. Additionally, the organization operates a clothing bank, ensuring that those in need have access to clean and warm clothing, particularly during the harsh winter months.

Salford Loaves and Fishes also places a strong emphasis on mental health and well-being. They offer counselling and support groups to help individuals cope with the emotional and psychological challenges that often accompany homelessness and poverty.

What sets Salford Loaves and Fishes apart is its unwavering commitment to treating every person who walks through its doors with dignity and respect. Volunteers and staff members go the extra mile to create a welcoming and non-judgmental environment where everyone feels valued and heard.

The organization relies heavily on the dedication of its volunteers and the generosity of the community. Countless individuals and businesses in Salford have supported Loaves and Fishes over the years, recognizing the vital role it plays in the local community.

Starring Rory Bremner as Chris Tarrant at The Lowry, Salford on Tuesday 24th to Saturday 28th October 2023

Production shots have been released for the national tour of James Graham’s smash hit play Quiz, which comes to The Lowry, Salford from Tuesday 24th to Saturday 28th October 2023.

The critically-acclaimed play stars renowned comedian, Rory Bremner, as Chris Tarrant and Charlie Webb (Emmerdale) and Lewis Reeves (I May Destroy You) as Diana and Charles Ingram.

Also featuring Mark Benton (Northern Lights, Waterloo Road) Leo Wringer (Hamlet), Sukh Ojla (Bridgerton) and Marc Antolin (Little Shop Of Horrors)

In a shockingly shameless scam, Who Wants to Be a Millionaire was duped out of £1,000,000. Or was it?

Quiz is the thrilling and entertaining ride through the infamous Coughing Major scandal which engulfed the world’s most popular TV quiz show. The story remains a mystery and had over six million people glued to their screens in 2020 watching the ITV adaptation starring Michael Sheen, Matthew Macfadyen and Sian Clifford.

Now, uncovering new evidence, it’s time to ask you, the audience, to put fingers on keypads and answer the ultimate 50/50: guilty or not guilty?

Nominated for two Olivier Awards including Best New Comedy, James Graham’s smash hit play, Quiz, transferred to London’s West End with sensational reviews in 2018, following a sold-out run at Chichester Festival Theatre.

The play now returns to Chichester Festival Theatre before embarking on a 9-week UK tour from 22 September to 2 December 2023.

Directed by Co-Artistic Director of The Royal Shakespeare Company, Daniel Evans and Seán Linnen with design by Robert Jones, and produced by Jonathan Church Theatre Productions,Wessex Grove and Gavin Kalin Productions, by arrangement with William Village. Lighting by Ryan Day, composition and sound design by Ben and Max Ringham, with video by Tim Reid and casting by Matilda James CDG.

Quiz is a fictional imagination based on real events which took place in 2001 following an episode of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire? It is not in any way connected with the makers of the programme or any of the individuals portrayed. The television programme Who Wants To Be A Millionaire? is produced by 2waytraffic.

Event Listing

Quiz

Tuesday 24th to Saturday 28th October 2023

Tue – Sat 7.30pm, Wed & Sat 2pm

Access Performances: BSL Wed 7.30pm, Audio Described Sat 2pm (Touch Tour 1pm)

https://thelowry.com/whats-on/quiz/