The best: Festive theatre coming to Manchester this winter

This Hope Mill Theatre Production takes on the classic Dickens story in style. A musical version of the esteemed novel, you can expect ‘true Broadway spectacle’ thanks to composer Alan Menken and writer and lyricist Lynn Ahrens, making it the perfect night out to lift the Christmas spirit.

Bringing the film’s iconic music to life, Home Alone in Concert features renowned composer John Williams’ charming and delightful score performed by the International Film Orchestra, which will run alongside a live screening of this beloved classic.

Combining acting, puppets, shadows and music, The Golden Princess follows the story of Melo, the one-legged musician, and the show’s namesake, who must wear a golden mask to hide her blinding beauty. Exploring ideas of truth and identity, it’s a great 50-minute show the whole family can enjoy.

It wouldn’t be Christmas at Bridgewater Hall without Hallé’s annual concerts. This festive celebration for orchestra, choirs and audiences will feature everything from O Holy Night and O Come All Ye Faithful to the music of The Nutcracker. Plus, the children’s choir will be taking to the stage for their rendition of I Want a Hippopotamus For Christmas.

A live performance of Derek Jarman’s seminal film, Blue Now explores the musings of the visionary filmmaker before his death from AIDS-related illnesses. With monologues performed by a star-studded cast including Julie Hesmondhalgh, Jay Bernard and Joelle Taylor, Blue Now is ‘a thought-provoking experience that pays tribute to Jarman and his final film.’

This family-friendly classic gets a musical makeover. Featuring fan-favourite songs including It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas and Pinecones and Hollyberries, it’s a heartwarming musical that’s filled with humour and spectacle.