Trace the history of Manchester’s theatrical past and present; its famous names, famous buildings, famous plays. Relive the lives and tragedies of both the performers and the companies. See the evolution of entertainment in the city from the very first play to the modern west end, from vagabonds to celebrities.

Manchester on stage means Annie Horniman at the Gaiety, Henry Irving at the Theatre Royal , Tom Courtenay at the Royal Exchange, Dickens at the Free Trade Hall – prompted by John Alker who, believe it or not, once produced William Walton’s Facade at a Rochdale college.