Free: Open day at The Lowry ft. stage combat, stand-up wkshps & more

Get the ultimate back-stage pass when The Lowry opens its doors like never before. On Sat 5 Aug, the multi-arts venue at Salford Quays will offer visitors the chance to peep behind the scenes, with backstage tours and expert workshops – including sessions on stage combat, stand-up comedy, beatboxing and theatre production. Opera North will be on site too with a vocal workshop exploring the works of Gilbert and Sullivan. There will be family activities and picnic areas galore, and a chance to learn more about LS Lowry as items from his archive pop up throughout the open day. For an extra flourish, make your way to the plaza as Lost in Translation Circus presents Cirque Bordello, an open-air show bursting with clowning, juggling and slapstick. The backstage tours are pay-what-you-want. Workshops are free but require booking – tickets available from Mon 24 Jul.

Sat 5 Aug, The Lowry, Pier 8, The Quays, Salford M50 3AZ. Tel: 0843 208 6000, 10am–4pm, FREE, www.thelowry.com