Manchester Opera House celebrates 100 years with open day, 8 Sept

The Opera House Manchester is inviting to the public to celebrate its forthcoming 100th Anniversary with a free family open day.

The Opera House opened on Boxing Day 1912 and this autumn will see a series of events to mark its Centenary, including the publication of a History of the Opera House, a gala performance of this year’s pantomime Peter Pan and a free family open day on Saturday 8th September.

Visitors will get the chance to learn more about the Opera House, its history, shows and also see behind the scenes – from the dressing rooms to the stage.

Activities on offer will include: Interactive backstage tours – follow in the footsteps of stars like Michael Ball, Michael Crawford and Zach Braff!
   
Costume displays – see costumes from shows like Spamalot, South Pacific and Legally Blonde

Face painting

On stage performances from up-and-coming talent
 
Technical demonstrations from the theatre’s stage crew

Children’s craft activities

Photographs from behind the scenes at last year’s panto Cinderella, taken by Phil Tragen

Storytelling sessions

Drama and dance workshops for youngsters (pre-booking a place advisable – call Lisa Prince on 0161 828 1707 for more information)

Competitions

A chance to record your memories of the Opera House on the Cententary Memory Tree

Display of archive material from over the past 100 years

Refreshments available
 
The open day will be officially opened by Opera House panto favourite Tam Ryan, who is back for the third year running as Smee in this year’s Peter Pan.

Sarah Bleasdale, general manager of the Opera House, said: “Our forthcoming free family open day is a wonderful opportunity for people to come along and learn more about what goes on behind the scenes!

“We’re so proud to be celebrating 100 glorious years of entertaining theatregoers, and are looking forward to a wonderful few months marking this historic milestone in the run up to our actual birthday, on Boxing Day.”