Back in 2013, Manchester International Festival worked with Albert Hall's new owners to restore and revive this truly spectacular space for performances by, among others, Goldfrapp, Mogwai and Maxine Peake. Thank the musical gods they did. The main space is astonishing. Almost a decade on it has become a firm favourite of the Manchester live music scene, the venue itself being one of the best support acts ever.
2022 marks the 50th anniversary of Manchester Camerata. The orchestra has, for half a century, enjoyed pushing the boundaries of what classical and orchestral music is, where it can be played and who it's for. Its reputation for challenging tradition has seen performances at places more associated with contemporary music and performance, such as HOME or Albert Hall, bring in new audiences which should see it through to its centenary.
Here are our highlights from this anniversary year's line-up.
Jess Gillam
Camerata's resident artist Jess Gillam kicks of celebrations with a performance at Stoller Hall ina programme which includes Daniel Kidane’s Be Still, a work commissioned and premiered by Manchester Camerata last year.
Friday March 11
Hacienda Classical
The hugely popular orchestral versions of music from the hedonistic days of the infamous club will be accompanied by former Hacienda DJ Graeme Park. Like a more civilised rave, this will be an outdoor perofrmance at Castelfield Bowl. You prpobably won't need a warm cardy...
Friday July 8
‘The Kid’
Charlie Chaplin's ‘The Kid’ gets a big screen outing at HOME Mcr accompanied by a live score, with a 16-piece Manchester Camerata orchestra bringing to life this all-time classic with an emotive musical score written by Chaplin himself.
Thursday June 16
Pandora
Head to The Lowry for the extraordinary Le Gateau Chocolat's ‘Pandora’ fusing orchestral music, theatre and song to reveal what's inside the mysterious and legendary box of surprises.
Friday November 25 - Saturday November 26
AMC Gospel Choir
Festive Happening
The Camerata joins forces with the AMC Gospal Choir for a yuletide celebration at Albert Hall. This annual afternoon treat is a great family concert and a joyful way to get you into the mood for Christmas.
Sunday December 11