We had hoped to commence renovations and a full review of the Technical Spec of the theatre itself over the winter period, with a view to reopening for productions in the late spring or summer. Unfortunately, with Manchester now in Tier 3, this work is now on hold and will need to be rescheduled.
For the time being, a decision has been taken to close the Dancehouse doors beyond our core educational activities, until at least Autumn / Winter 2021.
We are awaiting confirmation from our Promoter Partners as to whether our existing shows will be moved to an alternative venue, postponed or cancelled but a refund will now be available from your original ticket vendor upon request.
Here's your opportunity to put on a performance, conference, create a film night or to run your classes in a beautifully restored, landmark city-centre complex complete with its original Art Deco features. We'll even help with your marketing activity.
This seats a maximum of 430 (sales capacity 407), or 490 if a combination of standing and seating. It can also be converted to a 380-capacity standing-only space for live music events. The stage area also includes a recently installed large screen that's perfect for film nights.
Within the same complex is a coffee shop and licensed theatre bar, both available for your event.
We have one of the largest stages to perform on in the city, with sloped tiered seating giving everyone a perfect view. It's the perfect blend of intimacy and vibrancy to add an extra dimension to your live music event.
We can deliver the kind of audience experience you want to create. If it's standing-only there's room for 380, or up to 490 with combined standing and seating.
Let your audience experience the latest digital projection technology in the original 1930 surroundings of our auditorium. You won't find a more inspiring character setting for your special private movie experience or cinema-based corporate event. If you wish to present a public screening event we can work with you to acquire the appropriate council licence.
Used during the day by the highly respected Northern Ballet School, you couldn't run your classes in more inspiring surroundings.
Contact our Theatre Manager Dave Crook.
Contact our Studio Manager Suzie Mitchell by completing our Studio Hire Form.
* Please note that Dave's number is for telephone enquiries only, text message enquiries are not possible. Dave can be contacted between 8.30am to 12 noon and 2pm to 5.30pm Monday to Friday.
The flat-sprung floor stage is one of the largest in Manchester. With its full lighting rig and powerful sound system, any live performance becomes an exceptional experience.
In addition we have recently installed a 6000-lumens digital projector and screen, making The Dancehouse a popular venue for distinctive film events including the wonderful annual horror film festival Grimmfest.
Sloped seating throughout the auditorium gives a great view for everyone, including those with disabilities. We have eight wheelchair spaces, all with associated seating for companions.
The theatre bar is always open throughout all events and our coffee shop is available for selected events.
For detailed technical specifications download our Tech Specs PDF.
Our dance / rehearsal studios are used during term time by the students at Northern Ballet School – which gives you a great indication of their quality.
In all we have five studios. There are two large studios on the top floor, and three smaller studios on the floor below. All are available for hire.
All the studios have a professional standard sprung beech wood harlequin floor. Each is equipped with full-height wall mirrors, barres, infra-red heating, cooling fans and a piano.
Our large coffee shop is always open when the studios are in use, helping to give your classes an extra social dimension.
Whatever event or class you run at The Dancehouse, it will be your responsibility to promote it.
However, we'll be pleased to play our part in all these ways:
