April brings a mix of live music, theatre, festivals, and markets to explore. With spring in full swing, there’s plenty to see and do. Whether you’re after a family day out or a night of entertainment, here are the month’s highlights.
Community
Roxy Ballroom Takeover (2nd)
Dive into the ultimate student takeover at Roxy Ballroom in Manchester Deansgate! Get ready for a high-energy night packed with unlimited access to games like Roxy Golf Course, Ping Pong, Ice-Free Curling, Shuffleboard, Pool and Beer Pong. There’s two sessions, one from 17:00 and the Official Varsity Afterparty is from 20:30.
International Society Easter Afternoon Tea (17th)
Staying in Manchester over the Easter break? Why not join us for a Wholesome Afternoon of Tea & Cake! What better way to get to know the British culture than experiencing a Traditional English Afternoon Tea. Come along to meet friends while enjoying a variety of sandwiches, cakes and of course scones with jam and cream.
Day trip to Chester Zoo (19th)
Chester Zoo, one of the UK’s largest and most popular zoos, is home to over 20,000 animals across 125 acres of beautifully landscaped habitats. Visitors can explore a world of biodiversity, from endangered species like Sumatran tigers and Asian elephants to lush tropical environments in the zoo’s impressive indoor rainforest.
Art & Culture
Our lives, our privacy: the 40 items that shaped 40 years of privacy rights (All Month)
Protecting personal information and your right to privacy has never been more important as we move deeper into the digital age, technology moves at rapid pace and as society and culture evolves. Join the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) in marking its 40th anniversary by visiting their exhibition between April—June 2025 on the first floor of Manchester Central Library.
Mary Poppins (9th – 30th)
Everyone’s favourite governess returns to the Palace Theatre to bring us a spoonful of sugar! Join Mary Poppins, Bert, Jane and Michael as the wonderful story of Mary Poppins comes to life on stage in this spectacular production from Cameron Mackintosh and Disney, with choreography by Matthew Bourne!
Hamlet: Hail to the Thief (27th – 18th May)
Shakespeare’s great tragedy and Radiohead’s seminal album collide for a feverish experience that fuses theatre, music, and movement. In this frenetic distillation of Shakespeare’s masterpiece, Elsinore has come under new rule and hectic runs in the blood of its citizens. Hamlet Hail to the Thief centres on Hamlet and Ophelia’s awakening to the lies and corruption revealed by ghosts and music. Paranoia reigns and no one is spared a tragic unravelling.
Gigs & Live Events
Lambrini Girls (10th)
Chaotic, raw, and unapologetically punk—join the Lambrini Girls bring at Gorilla. Expect riotous anthems and rebellion.
The Murder Capital (18th)
Dublin’s finest, hit New Century Hall with their brooding riffs, visceral lyrics, and electrifying energy—don’t miss it.
Mo Gilligan (24th)
Comedy powerhouse Mo Gilligan brings his razor-sharp wit and infectious energy to the 02 Apollo.
Funkademia (29th)
Established in 1995 this is Manchester’s longest running club night, with its new home at the Deaf Institute, enjoy 3 floors of iconic music.
Sports
Manchester Storm (4th)
Manchester Strom are the only professional ice hockey team in the North West, playing in the highest league in the country, Elite Ice Hockey League. Based in Altrincham, they provide a fantastic experience and night out for all combined with top level professional sport, Ice Hockey is the fastest team sport in the world! It is a high speed, physical game with a great family atmosphere.
Manchester United vs Manchester City (6th)
Even if you can’t get tickets, make sure you’re at a bar watching the Manchester derby game on the 6th. Though both teams have had up and down seasons, this game always lives up to its billing with plenty of pride on the line.
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If you have any events you’d like to see featured in next month’s edition then feel free to get in touch at studentnews@manchester.ac.uk
Have a fantastic month!