The Lowry Studio, part of The Lowry in Salford, is gaining an impressive reputation for putting on innovative theatre from both national and North West-based theatre makers. Claire Symonds, studio programmer/producer says: 'The studio is about supporting emerging artists and also work that is risky, adventurous and exciting. We programme a wide range of work, with a strong focus on the North.' They have just launched their autumn programme and here's just five of the highlights.
The Lowry’s Developed With programme supports four emerging theatre companies every year to develop a brand new show. From October 15-16, FellSwoop Theatre bring 'Ghost Opera' to the Studio. Two strangers meet in a spa, both troubled by living ghosts in their everyday; both must confront what is haunting them. A chance to see a brand new piece of work before anyone else.
In the bicentenary year of her birth, 'Ada Ada Ada' is the spellbinding interactive storytelling of the world's first computer programmer, Ada Lovelace, presented on October 30. Performed by Zoe Philpott in association with Manchester Science Festival, the show features a 1830s dress with 500 programmable LEDs, paying respect to a woman who helped sow the seeds for a digital age.
From September 15-20, the Roundabout, a wonderful 168 seat travelling pop-up theatre-in-the-round, comes to the Lowry. Pitched in the Plaza outside, this will showcase three Paines Plough plays alongside exciting new writing. Paines Plough have presented shows in The Studio in the past, most recently 'Every Brilliant Thing'. Pick of the bunch is 'Lungs' (September 16, 18 and 19). In a time of global anxiety, erratic weather and political unrest, a couple want a child but are running out of time. What will be first to destruct - the planet or their relationship?
The Lowry also works with four theatre companies as Associate Artists. Monkeywood Theatre bring two pieces about the Manchester football scene to The Lowry, looking at identity, community, and belonging. From September 17-20 in the Quays Theatre 'By Far The Greatest Team' considers what it means to be a football fan in Manchester, and the impact it has on our lives. On September 19 they also present 'Ten Tiny Tales About Football' in the Roundabout, a script in hand performance written by fans.
The Lowry Studio continues to showcase great theatre from around the North West. Debunking the myth behind the sari, Manchester-based Rasa Theatre present 'Whose Sari Now?' on November 19. Rani Moorthy plays multiple characters and examines the role of the sari in a funny and poignant play with rich and eclectic music influenced by classical Indian Carnatic music, pop, hip-hop, Tamil rap, Malay instrumentation, classical and contemporary music.
The Lowry Studio, Lowry Theatre, Salford Quays. Tickets for all shows now available.
See more things to do in Manchester from Time Out.