We can’t quite believe we’re already a quarter of the way through the year. Alas, with the sun making an appearance this week and the blossom out on the trees, its the perfect time to get out and about across Greater Manchester. From one of the world’s most talented musicians playing Co-op Live, to a creative life drawing class, here’s the best things to do this week.
A Neurodivergent Art Exhibition at The Gallery, Spinningfields
Award-winning Loveartpix, the self-taught Manchester-based autistic artist known for his powerful and emotive artwork, is set to showcase his latest collection in Spinningfields.
The exhibition invites art lovers into a world where bold colours, abstract visuals and profound narratives converge to explore the intersection of technology, humanity and emotion.
Loveartpix adopted his artistic name in 2018 and since then, he has used his art as a lifeline to navigate the challenges of being neurodivergent. His work serves as a powerful form of self-expression, allowing him to communicate his journey and raise awareness about neurodivergent conditions. Art is not just a reflection of his personal struggles but an invitation for dialogue on the importance of acceptance, understanding and the celebration of neurodiversity.
Loveartpix said: “I’ve always believed that art is not just about creating something beautiful—it’s about connecting with people on a deeper level.
“Through my art, I want to share my personal journey as a neurodivergent individual and raise awareness about the conditions that shape my life and many others. I hope this exhibition can foster understanding and encourage acceptance.”
Never Work With Photography Exhibition at The Carlton Club
Photographers Alex Grace and Scott Kershaw team up on new exhibition Never Work With. Taking place at Whalley Range’s Carlton Club, the exhibition features highly stylised portraits of animals and children, with the work referencing moments in time and life.
André Rieu at Co-op Live
World famous Dutch violinist and conductor André Rieu returns to tour the UK and Ireland in 2025, including a very special date in Manchester. The King of Waltz will be joined by his 60-strong Johann Strauss Orchestra and many international soloists in celebration of 200 years of Johann Strauss. Watch the classical music spectacular at Co-op Live on Thursday 3 April 2025.
Ein Null: 10 Years of Sprechen at Refuge
Kimpton Clocktower Hotel launches their next free art exhibition this Thursday, celebrating the vibrant creative synergy between music, art, Manchester and iconic local record label Sprechen. Opening on 3 April, just ahead of Record Store Day, Ein Null brings to life a decade of groundbreaking musical output and unforgettable artwork from Chris Massey’s revered indie imprint. The new free exhibition features an eclectic mix of visual works from designers who have shaped the Sprechen identity, making it an unmissable experience for art and music lovers alike. The launch on 3 April will feature DJ sets from Psychederek, Louie Dunkin and Camilla Reghenzi, kicking off at 7pm.
Songwriting with Nina Cobham at Low Four Studio
Bilingual singer-songwriter Nina Cobham sheds light on her creative process at Low Four Studio. Part of the Brighter Sound and Vic Meets series, guests can learn practical tips to inspire their own songwriting. The workshop will last two hours and include plenty of time to ask questions, chat, jam and freestyle. Tickets are free, with an opportunity to donate if you can.
Unframed x Shape and Grow at The New Cross
Transformative property managers CERT presents Unframed, a thought-provoking panel discussion exploring the intersection of art, mental health, and community. Taking place on 3 April, the free event will bring together leading Manchester-based artists to share their experiences, creative journeys, and the role of community in shaping their work.
The event will feature celebrated Manchester-based artists Caroline Dowsett, Emma Evans, Kyami and mandla, and will be hosted by Liam Heeley of Heads UK, a platform that drives and connects creativity with the community.
Alongside the panel discussion, CERT is partnering with Engine House Studio & Friends to present Shape and Grow, a group exhibition showcasing works by Conscious Made, Dr Me, Jason Edmunds, YAYVM, himHallows, Jimograph, Caroline Dowsett and more. This exhibition celebrates the power of creativity and community, highlighting diverse artistic voices and perspectives. DJs COHĒSION and Kasaya will be providing the tunes at the show too.
Skunk Anansie at O2 Apollo
British rock icons Skunk Anansie return with a huge UK headline tour in Spring 2025, including a date in Manchester. Formed in London in 1994, the band are known for hits including Charity, Hedonism and Selling Jesus. They play at O2 Apollo on Friday 4 April 2025.
Abigail’s Party at The Royal Exchange
Directed by Natalie Abrahami and starring Kym Marsh as the iconic Beverly Moss, Mike Leigh’s modern classic Abigail’s Party comes to the Royal Exchange this spring. A show that has garnered cult status across the decades, award-winning director Natalie Abrahami draws on the unique in-the-round stage to create an intimate party that you won’t want to miss.
‘At the height of 1970s suburbia, social class and ambition, Beverly Moss, the Hostess with the Mostess, is inviting you to her cocktail party. As the night moves on and the party gets thick with sexual tension, Beverly’s exclusive gathering quickly descends into chaos.’
Olly Alexander at Aviva Studios
Join the critically-acclaimed singer and actor Olly Alexander for one night only at Aviva Studios in Manchester. Olly Alexander rose to fame as the frontman of Years & Years, the chart-topping pop band who formed in 2010. In 2021, he received a string of nominations for his stunning performance as Ritchie Tozer in the Channel 4 drama series It’s A Sin. He will play at the home of Factory International on 4 April 2025.
Life Drawing at The Wandering Palate
The Wandering Palate host a friendly and relaxed life drawing session. Lead by expert Emma Evans and perfect for beginners, the class aims to enhance your creativity and is a great opportunity to meet new people. Basic art materials will be provided and each session features a different model with dynamic poses as well as a unique playlist and complimentary refreshments.
New Animals – AWAKEN at The DBA
“Spring is here and it’s time to wake from your slumber.” New Animals welcome guests into their world of chaotic dreams and nightmares on 4 April. Head down to The Derby Brewery Arms to enjoy the culmination of months of their planning and dreaming to create an unforgettable audio visual experience. The evening will feature surreal art, interactive exhibits, performance art and prizes for the best dressed, headlined by the one and only Metrodome.
Badly Drawn Boy at Aviva Studios
Damon Gough, aka Badly Drawn Boy, celebrates the 25th anniversary of his stunning debut album The Hour of Bewilderbeast with a UK tour. One of the country’s most acclaimed songwriters, the groundbreaking album won the Mercury Prize back in 2000 and features a mix of folk and electronica. Gough will perform the album in its entirety at the hometown show at Manchester’s Aviva Studios on Saturday 5 April 2025.
Spring Holidays at Science and Industry Museum
Spring into action with a sense-sational programme of free hands-on family fun at the Science and Industry Museum. Inspired by their new blockbuster exhibition, Operation Ouch! Brains, Bogies and You, families can discover the superpowers of animals in their lively new science show Wild Senses.
Join the museum’s expert explainers at the tasting station and discover how bees taste and smell. Hang out in our Bat Cave and learn more about the nocturnal creatures or get crafty and make your own bat to take home.
Rachel Fairburn – Side Eye at The Met
Rachel Fairburn, star of Live at the Apollo and co-host of the All Killa No Filla podcast, brings her stand-up show to The Met this April. The comedian will also bring her brand-new characters along for the ride on Saturday 5 April.
VIKKSTAR at O2 Ritz
Renowned YouTuber, member of the Sidemen and rising DJ talent Vikkstar embarks on his highly anticipated UK debut DJ tour this Spring. Vikkstar has already been making serious waves in the music industry with a collaboration with global superstar Steve Aoki and a supporting slot on Alan Walker’s European tour. Fans can catch him play at O2 Ritz on 5 April 2025.
Vikkstar said: “I’m beyond excited to bring this tour to the UK. It’s going to be an unforgettable experience for everyone who comes out. Music has always been a passion of mine, and I can’t wait to showcase my DJ sets to my fans.”
Black Josh & Friends ‘YSL Bootleg Party’ at SOUP
Black Josh and friends descend upon SOUP to celebrate the new Black Josh project ‘YSL Bootleg’, produced by Lee Scott and Sumgii. Expect special guests in abundance and a mountain of exclusive merch on Saturday 5 April.
Persona Third Birthday with Onur Özer and Ivan Smagghe at Concept Haus
Persona celebrates its third birthday with a warehouse rave-up at Concept Haus in Salford. Running from 3pm, residents Louie G and Ryan Ingleby will be joined by Frond, Karine & Shakolin, Noizar and headline slots from the icons that are Ivan Smagghe and Onur Özer. There will be mess.
Rainy Heart at Stretford Mall – ‘A Repeat Prescription’
At the end of last year, NTS DJ, Ruf Kutz and Wet Play legend Ruf Dug and Dan Hope managed to nab the keys to the empty branch of Boots in Stretford Mall for a right rave up as Rainy Heart, also the name of their listening bar which they set up around the corner last summer. It was quite the party, boasting sets from James Holroyd and Ruffy himself, alongside art installations and an appearance from the hefty Rainy Heart sound system. This one will push the envelope further, with more situationist weirdness and (most importantly) top flight tunes.
Frank Turner at Manchester Academy
Frank Turner & The Sleeping Souls perform a headline show at Manchester Academy in April. After kick-starting the year with an intimate gigs for BRITs Week and War Child, Frank Turner returns to town with his Undefeated tour, supporting his tenth studio album.
Adventures in Wonderland at Z-arts
Z-arts is inviting families to tumble down the Rabbit Hole to experience their own magical Adventures in Wonderland this Easter. Created in partnership with Macmillan Children’s Books, the new immersive play experience celebrates the 160th anniversary of one of the most loved children’s books of all time Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.
Greeting you as your storyteller is the White Rabbit, and from the shape shifting Cheshire Cat to a game of croquet with flamingos, there are scenes that will be familiar, including the chance to take your place at the Mad Hatter’s tea party. Tunnels to crawl through, mazes to get lost in, fairground mirrors to amuse and a ball pool to ‘splash’ into, plus interactive games and sensory areas, all bring Lewis Carroll’s fantastical world to life.
Jeff Wayne’s The War of the Worlds at Co-op Live
Arriving in time to celebrate 130 years since the publication of HG Wells’ dark Victorian tale, the tour will feature a 3D hologram of Liam Neeson as The Journalist, who recounts his story of survival from the Martian invasion of 1898. Real-life couple Max George and Maisie Smith will play the married couple Parson Nathaniel and wife Beth in the new production.
One of the most popular arena tours of all time, it remains a favourite for millions of fans worldwide. The War Of The Worlds will arrive in Manchester on Sunday 6 April 2025 at Co-op Live.
