A guide to the Royal Exchange, Manchester

Based in Manchester city centre, the Royal Exchange Theatre is one of the most impressive buildings in this cosmopolitan north western city, holding Grade II listed building status. The Royal Exchange regularly hosts a range of events and, in particular, plays, which are viewed by hundreds of spectators. Backstage tours are available at the theatre which is said to be haunted by a Victorian ghost. This article provides a guide to the Royal Exchange, Manchester.

Spectacular premises

Grade II listed building Manchester's Royal Exchange is a unique structure. Built within the renovated structure of Manchester's cotton exchange, the modern day theatre features a seven-sided steel and glass module at the heart of the great hall. The architecture of the theatre alone is worth a visit. This is a simply majestic place in which to view a live play or show. Britain's largest round theatre The Royal Exchange in Manchester seats 700 spectators, making this Britain's largest round theatre as the stage is entirely surrounded by a watching gallery.
Take your pick of seats with 400 chairs at ground level and a further 300 spread across two tiers of galleries which overlook the Royal Exchange stage. Supporting rooms There are three other main rooms available at the Royal Exchange: The Studio, an intimate venue capable of hosting 120 and the corporate members' lounge and function room where theatre aficionados can relax and unwind with food and drink both before an after a show.

Entertainment on offer

Plays The theatre's main type of performance, including classic works by Shakespeare and Harold Pinter for example, are presented in the 700-capacity great hall. The theatre's smaller studio hosts student productions, question and answer sessions with famous playwrights, authors and writers and unique exhibitions. Special FX Special FX is a weekly show hosted by the Royal Exchange Theatre. Attendees can enjoy an interesting and eclectic mix of live music, including Indo-jazz and free-running music, comedy shows and dance exhibitions while drinking a selection of non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages. Opera and musicals The Royal Exchange Theatre also offers visitors large-scale operas and musicals with impressive orchestral music filling the exchange's great hall to the delight of a viewing audience.

Education

Organising tours Educational groups wishing to block book seats or organise a tour at the Royal Exchange Theatre should contact the box office with details of their class numbers. Backstage access All areas tours are available to theatre goers with free tea and coffee at the back stage with some of the theatre's key players.