Top 3: Free events this week ft. legends, brains and theatre

No doubt many of us have been contentedly sipping cold beers in the sunshine over the past few weeks, with an air of hedonism and excess, grasping as much of this supposed summer as we can. Needless to say, purse strings may be looking a little fraught, so here are some events for the coming week – of which none will cost you a penny, let alone the price of a pint.

The Legend of Tarifa at Cervantes
With all of these sunbeams gracing our city of late, it feels like Manchester could rival climes Mediterranean. Almost. For those yet to be convinced, local writer Natasha Smith transports the essence of Andalucia to Manchester for the debut of The Legend of Tarifa, a blend of music, poetry, song and dance. Inspired by the passion of the Flamenco, it chronicles one man’s search for love in a modern fairy-tale of magic and mermaids. The performance features an original score from Gillian Menichino and dancers from Manchester dance school, Danceworks.
Wed 24 Jul, Cervantes, 326/330 Deansgate, Campfield Avenue Arcade, M3 4FN, Tel: 0161 661 4201, FREE, www.manchester.cervantes.es

Brains: The Mind as Matter at MOSI
Ever seen a real human brain? If so, that may be a little suspect; if not, head down to the Museum of Science and Industry to learn more about our bodies’ most weird and wonderful organ. In its first jaunt outside of London, the Brains exhibition merges science, technology and art through the use of manuscripts, artefacts, videos and photography, as well as bona fide examples of the body part in question. Explore the scientific, medical and cultural importance of studying the brain, and figure out what on earth happens underneath that cranium of yours.
Fri 26 Jul – Sat 4 Jan, Museum of Science and Industry, Liverpool Road, Castlefield, M3 4FP, Tel: 0161 832 2244, FREE, www.mosi.org.uk

24:7 Theatre Festival at 2022NQ
Celebrating its tenth year, 24:7 Theatre Festival returns to showcase the freshest new writers and producers on the scene. Although most of the festival events will cost you a bob or two, 2022NQ (pictured) plays host to a collection of freebies. Expect anything from mime to live music from the aforementioned The Legend of Tarifa, as well as a work in progress performance of one-woman show, Mint Green.
Mon 22 – Fri 26 Jul, 2022NQ, 20/22 Dale Street, Northern Quarter, M1 1EZ, Tel: 0161 237 9360, FREE, www.2022nq.co.uk, www.247theatrefestival.co.uk