Factory International has unveiled a new season of theatre, visual arts, music and immersive experiences at Aviva Studios...
Factory International has announced its autumn-winter programme for Aviva Studios, with a season that includes a new David Bowie immersive experience, the return of Cephas Williams’ Portrait of Black Britain exhibition, and a satirical new play imagining Gaza hosting the Olympic Games in 2048.
The newly announced programme joins the previously revealed dance adaptation of Russell T Davies’ acclaimed series It’s a Sin, which will make its world premiere in Manchester in February 2027.
One of the headline attractions is David Bowie: You’re Not Alone, a 360-degree immersive production from Lightroom that will transform Aviva Studios’ Warehouse space between December and January. Featuring Bowie as the sole voice throughout, the experience draws on rare archive footage, photography, lyrics, personal notes and audio recordings to explore the artist’s creative life and legacy.
Also returning to Manchester is Portrait of Black Britain by artist, photographer and activist Cephas Williams. Originally commissioned for Manchester International Festival in 2021 and displayed in Manchester Arndale, the exhibition explores the experiences of Black people living in the UK and forms part of Williams’ wider ambition to create the largest collection of photographic portraits of Black British people ever assembled. It will open at Aviva Studios on 1 October as part of Black History Month.
Theatre audiences can also catch Application 39, a new work from Palestinian writer and theatre-maker Ahmed Masoud. Set against the backdrop of the 2048 Olympic Games, the play imagines a future Gaza unexpectedly chosen to host the event a century after the ‘Nakba’ – the displacement caused by the Arab-Israeli war of 1948. Drawing on real-life testimonies, the production combines satire, dark comedy and political commentary.
Masoud said: “I am excited to see my play Application 39 going on tour, I hope everyone goes to see it and imagines Gaza like I did – a city that can host the Olympics in 2048. The play has allowed me to dream that when people come together hope can be born.
“Come and experience our Palestinian sense of humour and see our experience for yourself. Laugh, cry and be with us, for being together is in itself an act of resilience.”
John McGrath, Artistic Director and Chief Executive of Factory International, said: “This autumn’s programme includes work by extraordinary artists exploring key issues of our time, as well as a joyous treat celebrating the world of David Bowie.
“Following our Spring season of premieres and our amazing summer show from Ai Weiwei, we are thrilled to celebrate Cephas Williams and Lightroom’s return to Manchester, as well as welcoming the resonant and surprising Palestinian play Application39.”
Away from the stage, visitors can hear from chef and food writer Yotam Ottolenghi, former White House Communications Director Anthony Scaramucci in conversation with political satirist Matt Forde, and celebrated author, filmmaker and journalist Jon Ronson, who brings his live show Enter The Castle to Manchester in September.
Tickets for the new season go on sale this week, with prices starting from £10.
Head to the Factory International website for more information and to book…
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