Dr Who at Fifty art, theatre + events across Manchester

Whether you’re a fan or not, it can’t have escaped your attention that Doctor Who celebrates its fiftieth anniversary in November. Manchester’s love letter to the series comes in the form of a two-week fringe festival over four venues packed with screenings, comedy, drama and ale. The Lass O’Gowrie (literally stepping out of the shadows since the recent demolition of the nearby BBC building) kicks things off with ‘The Art Of Who’, showcasing the world’s longest running tie-in comic strip, featuring rare art and a chance to meet the creators. Other highlights include a visit from Waris Hussein, director of first ever episode ‘An Unearthly Child’ in 1963, who introduces a stage version of that very story (17 Nov, FAB Café) and a night with Phil Collinson, ‘The Cobbles of Doom’, celebrating the links between Coronation Street and Doctor Who (both of which he’s been a prominent producer of – 20 Nov, Taurus). Don’t forget the jelly babies.

Sat 16 – Sat 30 Nov, various venues, prices vary, www.facebook.com

Image: Colin Brockhurst

Thanks to Groovement