Library Theatre’s The Bubbler at The Lowry Studio

With the mammoth refurbishment and extension of the Central Library, Manchester’s Library Theatre continues to shuffle hermit crab-like from venue to venue before it finds its true Home in 2014. The lack of a permanent base, however, has not stymied its output as it continues to showcase some of the country’s most exciting new plays. Inspired by the riots and subsequent lootings of August 2011, The Bubbler is a stripped-down discussion on self-pity and hatred versus kindness and grace. With just two characters (barman Paul and his most embittered customer Peter) and one location (the bar), it is a simple yet evocative play that has garnered critical acclaim and has already sold out the first of its three-night run. So beg, steal or borrow to get to the two remaining shows.

Mon 21 Jan – Wed 23 Jan, The Lowry Studio, Pier 8, Salford Quays, M50 3AZ, Tel: 0843 208 6010, £8/£6, www.librarytheatre.com