With what can only be explained as a whirlwind of a week last week, there’s still a sombre mood spread out across the city.
It certainly feels like Autumn now, even though the official start still isn’t for another couple of weeks, but seeing people re-wrapped in scarves and strutting about in chunky boots has got me very excited for the cosy months to come.
This week, as expected, there have been many event cancellations in response to the news of the Queen’s passing. However, there’s still plenty of things to do across the city, including our very own event, Live At The Grill, which is a two-day celebration of barbecue food, drink and music taking place at Deansgate Square this weekend.
There’s also some great creative classes for those looking to get crafty, including a BYOB introduction to graffiti art and a collaborative painting workshop on Stockport’s Underbank! We’ve put together our top picks for the week below, and, as always there’s plenty to fill your diary with…
Soundcamp Showcase with Reform Radio
Tuesday 13th September
Over the past 12 weeks, Reform Radio, partnered with Youth Music Charity and Thirty Pound Gentleman, have been mentoring a group of up-and-coming musicians to develop their talent, aged 18-25. The Soundcamp Showcase will be the celebration and performance of this programme. Set to be a beautiful night listening to the work of some of Manchester’s new generation of musicians, this one is not to be missed. Get your free tickets to hear the magic for yourselves.
Mali Hayes at Band On The Wall
Wednesday 14th September
Taking place as part of Band On The Wall’s free event series, rising Manchester jazz superstar Mali Hayes is joined by Secret Night Gang’s very own Kemani Anderson for an evening of stripped-back jazz, R&B and neo-soul. The events aim to shine a light on emerging artists across all genres with a diverse programme of global sounds from, and inspired by, the music of cultures from around the world.
A BYOB Introduction to Graffiti at Sett Art Cafe
Thursday 15th September
From 7pm – 9pm this Thursday, Sett Art Cafe is hosting an event for those looking to break into the vast world of graffiti art. The evening is BYOB, and guests can expect to be taught about the history and origins of graffiti up to modern times, how to create your own, unique tag and develop that into your very own piece to take home. All materials are included and tickets are £16.22 per person.
Comedy For Hot People at The Fitzgerald
Thursday 15th September
Northern Quarter’s pay as you feel comedy night is back this week with another great line-up of comedians. Removing the financial barrier, Comedy For Hot People gives everyone a chance to attend the shows, which are often a tremendous showcase of the UK’s best up-and-coming talent. This week’s line-up features the wonderful Katharyn Henson, a New York comedian based in London who’s a regular at Top Secert Comedy Club, New York Comedy Club, Gotham Comedy Club, Broadway Comedy Club, The Stand, as well as countless backs of bars, windowless basements, rooftops, and bathroom stalls!
NAM Lotus with Pip Millett
Thursday 15th September
Taking place just over the road in Ancoats, Lotus is an evening presented by BBC Radio 1’s Victoria Jane who will host a womxn in R&B panel with Manchester’s acclaimed R&B stars Pip Millett, The KTNA and Robin Knightz. The panel will then be followed by a heavyweight line-up of DJs taking over NAM’s elite audiophile system from 7pm until 11pm, with free entry for all and drinks courtesy of The House of Suntory.
Rusko, Chimpo and T-Man at Joshua Brooks
Friday 16th September
Dubstep DJ and Producer, Rusko takes over Manchester’s original rave den, Joshua Brooks with Chimpo and T-Man this week. Influential figures on the Dubstep circuit, all three are affiliated with pioneering labels and tracks that defined a generation of music enthusiasts.
Stopport Cloth Collaborative Painting Workshop at Stage Door
Saturday 17th September
Hosted by artist, Heather Chambers at Stockport’s Stage Door on Little Underbank, the workshop is inspired by Stockport’s roaring textile industry. Creating group responses using drawing and painting as an explorative tool, guests will work collaboratively to encourage new perspectives, techniques, and friendships.
The workshop is a space for conversing and learning through art, experiencing and doing as a group with the hope that, in this way, it’s reflective of the lives of factory workers; inherently working as a large team. Sisterhood, hardship and community are some of the themes that will be covered on the evening.
Corella at Night & Day Cafe
Saturday 17th September
Indie-pop quartet, Corella hit Manchester this weekend for a huge headline show at Northern Quarter’s esteemed music venue, Night & Day Cafe. Made up of our very own Joel Smith (Vocals), alongside university pals Ben Henderson (Bass & Vocals), Jack Taylor (Guitar) and James Fawcett (Drums), the band’s signature catchy melodic hooks, propulsive multi-layered guitar riffs, and reminiscent lyrics, relay a coming-of-age story of their own.
The Little Sri Lankan Pop Up at A Taste of Honey
Saturday 17th September
If you’re missing out on The Little Sri Lankan’s supper club tomorrow evening at Isca Wines, fear not, as the restaurant is hosting a pop-up at Burton Road’s A Taste of Honey on Saturday. From 5pm – 9pm, the evening will have a focus on homemade rice and curry, alongside the ever popular Mutton Rolls full of potatoes, lamb mince, mint leaves and green chillies in a breadcrumb coating. You’ll be able to enjoy the food in A Taste of Honey’s secret garden, or as takeout in the comfort of your own home.
Hit & Run x Calm Sessions: Last of the Summer Whine Day Party at Six Trees
Saturday 17th September
No introduction is needed here, as Hit & Run has grown to be one of Manchester’s most famous parties. Back at Six Trees with another unmatched line-up, the venue will throw open its doors for an all-day collaboration with Calm Sessions for some laid-back Saturday grooving.
Heads x Submerged Photography Meetup
Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th September
A brand new photography meet-up is taking place at Submerged Spaces this weekend for anyone interested in photography or models looking to update their portfolio.
The event began as a way to allow photographers and models of different skill levels to collaborate, network and socialise in a comfortable environment. Hosted by the team behind Heads magazine, the evening will house 10 different setups for people to shoot and get creative, alongside high-quality lighting. All skill levels are welcome.
Live From the Grill at Deansgate Square
Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th September
Hosted exclusively by Manchester’s Finest, ‘Live From The Grill’ is a brand new food and music party taking over Deansgate Square for two days of exceptional eating, cutting edge live bands and on-point DJs. The event is completely free to attend, and will feature award-winning food, an Aperol Spritz bar and entertainment from the likes of Habitat and The Garden.
Sip and Paint at Hello Oriental
Sunday 18th September
Another boozy creative class, this time at the expansive Hello Oriental supermarket with an Oriental theme, will take place from 3pm – 7pm this Sunday. The class, hosted by Sip and Paint, is a creative art session for artists of any skill and ability level. You will be guided by a professional artist who will teach you tips and tricks to unlocking your very own hidden creative flair, whilst being treated to live music, DJs and an array of excellent drinks.
Harvest Feast at Platt Fields Park with Eat Well MCR
Sunday 18th September
A Harvest Festival Feast cooked by Manchester chefs Mary-Ellen McTague (Eat Well MCR), Issy Jenkins (ISCA) and Beth Hammond (Flawd/ Tawny Stores) takes place this weekend. The three-course meal will be served in the beautiful natural surroundings of Platt Fields Market Garden, as part of this year’s Harvest Festival celebrations. The chefs will use a combination of produce from local farms, donated goods from local allotment keepers and some beautiful organic produce from local growers. Each one known for their unmatched skills with seasonal produce, the three cooks will aim to bring the very best out of the ingredients used in each dish.
