The Lost Stage being installed
We knew from the start that we were keen to exhibit something of Manchester’s hidden layers, peeling back time to show something lost, something that spoke of Manchester past and, therefore, of Manchester present.
As discussions focussed on the ‘dramatic’ changes in Manchester in the 18th and 19th Centuries, the lost theatres of our city emerged as our subject, reflecting something of Manchester’s social history. We also felt it would appeal to our audience, the staff and students of the School of Arts Histories and Cultures. Our exhibition would aim to give an alternative view of the city and an historical insight to inspire and intrigue Mancunians and newcomers alike.
Handbills in the Display Case
As you will see from our exhibition, the beginning of the 19th Century saw a flourish of theatre building in Manchester; A prime example of a countrywide emergence of an Industrial Revolution-fuelled bourgeoisie in search of entertainment and new social spaces. Manchester’s theatres arrived to meet the demands of its new middle-class and some beautiful buildings emerged to house them.
The Curators
Within a century, those once lively theatres had largely gone, taking with them some wonderful histories of Victorians at play.
The Lost Stage
We aim to tickle with tales from theatres past and tantalise with architectural clues.
Download this map for your very own walking tour of Manchester city centre. Don’t forget to look up!
