Contact Theatre

Contact Theatre, perched at the top of Oxford Road, has been a creative force for decades, putting power in the hands of young people and marginalised communities. Its iconic copper and glass building stands as a beacon of inclusion and innovation, a place where art meets activism and every story matters.

Contact is home to Queer Contact Festival, one of the UK’s leading celebrations of LGBTQ+ performance. Each February, the building comes alive with drag, cabaret, comedy, poetry and theatre that push boundaries and celebrate joy. Past performers have included Cheddar Gorgeous, Travis Alabanza, Chanje Kunda and Rikki Beadle Blare, with a mix of emerging and established queer artists. Throughout the year, Contact’s programme continues this spirit, with shows exploring identity, race, gender and belonging, often led by local LGBTQ+ talent.

The bar and cafe are relaxed and welcoming, serving craft drinks and simple, hearty food. Before a show, the foyer buzzes with conversation, students, creatives, activists and allies all mingling together. There’s a real sense of community here, the kind you only get in Manchester, where friendliness feels effortless and authentic.

Contact goes further than performance, it’s a safe space for learning and leadership, with workshops for LGBTQ+ youth, open rehearsals and creative residencies. Fully accessible, with gender neutral toilets and relaxed performances, Contact is proudly queer, proudly Mancunian and forever forward thinking.