We are an independent show guide. Resale ticket prices may be above face value.

Best Shows in January 2025

Wicked at Manchester Palace Theatre

Wicked

Forget all that you know about The Wizard of Oz and be transported once again to the magical land of Oz! This time, however, the action takes place way before the arrival of Dorothy and her pooch Toto. THIS is the story of two magically inclined women, one blonde, and one green of skin - and their coming-of-age as the forces of good and (perceived) 'wicked'. Discover this incredible musical phenomenon, based on the critically acclaimed novel by Gregory Maguire, which explores the foundation of the Oz legend, of what made Glinda and Elphaba become the icons of good and bad, and whether all is what it appears to be in later stories.

Calamity Jane at Manchester Opera House

Calamity Jane

Whip-Crack Away! Carrie Hope Fletcher is steppin' into Calamity Jane's cowgirl boots for this brand new tour of the classic musical! A free-wheelin' musical set in the Wild West, the show follows the romance between frontierswoman Calamity and folk hero Wild Bill Hickock, as they work together to restore order to Deadwood City. Soundtracked by toe-tappin' musical numbers like 'It's Harry I'm Planning to Marry' and 'Secret Love', this is one hoedown you don't want to miss!

NOW That's What I Call a Musical at Manchester Opera House

NOW That's What I Call a Musical

Plenty of us fondly remember rushing down to the shops to pick up each new release of "NOW, That's What I Call Music!", the thrice-yearly compilation of Top-10 hits that has become a mainstay in British culture since the 80s. Now, from comedian Pippa Evans and director and choreographer Craig Revel Horwood (Strictly Come Dancing) comes a brand new musical inspired by the classic compilations! Premiering in Autumn 2024, NOW That's What I Call A Musical tells a story which many of us lived, through the classic songs from "NOW..." compilations through the ages!

Cinderella at Manchester Opera House

Cinderella

Bippity Boppity Boop your way to the Manchester Opera Theatre House and join Cinderella as she goes from rags to riches in this family favourite pantomime. Starring the fabulously wicked Myra DuBois as the evil Stepmother, Pete Firman as Buttons and Britain's Got Talent semi-finalist and Olivier-nominated actress Alison Jiear as the Fairy Godmother. With a welcoming dose of glitzy costumes and sets, innuendo's and plenty of audience participation; it's the perfect way to welcome in the festive season!

Shen Yun at Manchester Palace Theatre

Shen Yun

A glorious celebration of five thousand years of Chinese culture, Shen Yun presents colourful and exhilarating performances of classical Chinese dance and music, integrating technique and influence from both East and West. A performance by Shen Yun presents traditional Chinese culture as it once was: a study in grace, wisdom, and the virtues distilled from an ancient feudal period.