The award-winning Hope Mill theatre in Ancoats is proud to announce a three-week festival this summer with a jam-packed programme full of brilliant arts and cultural events lasting from from Friday 16 July until Sunday 8 August. Hope Fest, in association with Electric Park, has been made possible through collaboration and the ambition to champion the cultural arts post-Covid with a unique programme of community-centric events. The line-up offers something for everyone, whether that’s comedy, theatre, plays, or live music. With an on-site bar and superb eating area (including a BBQ), the pop-up venue will offer grub just as good as the events.

Matt & Phred’s Presents | From Sat 17 Jul - Sun 8 Aug | 3 pm - 4:45 pm | From £6.50

The iconic Northern Quarter live music stronghold is delighted to present five outstanding bands as their addition to Hope Fest. From Brazilian Jazz to Swing, to Live Looping, to full-on Funk/Soul/Hip-Hop party-starters; there’s something for everyone. This carefully curated line-up perfectly reflects the vibrant diversity of the genres of music that Matt & Phred’s so proudly showcases. With each performance leaving audiences captivated, these afternoon gigs are the perfect entertainment for audiences of all ages.

Murder at the Mill | Thu 22 Jul | 5pm & 8pm | From £10

After the success of ‘Who Killed the Lollipop Man?’ Theatre troupe UP ‘ERE are back with a brand new interactive murder mystery – this time in person and set during late 19th century Salford. There’s been a murder at the Mill, and UP ‘ERE are inviting you to embark on something a bit different this summer and enjoy the immersive event as you seek to find out who did it.

Frozen Sing-A-Long | Fri 23 Jul | 2pm | From £6.50

Showing an exclusive screening and sing-a-long of the family favourite classic, Frozen, this event is sure to give you chills. Perfect for kids and any Disney-avid adults, the lively and interactive screening is great entertainment for everyone. With a fun-first approach in mind, why not recline in the summer sun as you watch, and sing along to, a film all about the freezing cold.

A Celebration of Musical Theatre | Wed 4 Aug - Sat 7 Aug | Various times | From £21.50

Ready to take you on a musical journey of song and dance, this event, directed by Kirk Jameson and written and conceived by Chris Burgess, will proudly celebrate the history of musical theatre in a fun and interactive way. As a great mix of learning and entertainment, you’ll definitely take something away from this event while feeling energised and ready to perform.

Entr’acte’s and Encore’s | Sun 25 Jul | 7:30pm | From £14

Ever wondered how your favourite movie and theatre characters would be seen through queer eyes? Well, look no further! The iconic co-founder of ‘Queeriosity – Manchester’s Curious Cabaret’, Donna Trump, is excited to present a rich evening packed full of movie and theatre icons. All interpreted through the art of drag, burlesque, and performance, come along for a radical revisioning of classic staples, hidden gems, and phenomenal showstoppers in ways that you would never expect.

Mon 19 Jul - Sun 8 Aug, Hope Fest,
New Islington Green
Words:
Rhiannon Ingle
Published on:
Mon 19 Jul 2021