The Dancehouse Theatre

The Dancehouse Theatre is a beloved performance venue in Manchester, located on Oxford Road near the city's university district. Originally built as a cinema in the 1920s, it now specializes in dance and physical theatre, hosting a diverse program that includes contemporary dance, ballet, flamenco, and experimental works. The auditorium retains its vintage charm with a proscenium arch stage and red velvet seats, creating an intimate atmosphere. The venue also houses dance studios and a café-bar. It's a key part of Manchester's vibrant arts scene, offering affordable tickets and a welcoming vibe. Visitors can enjoy a show, take a dance class, or simply soak in the creative energy of the space.

Don't miss

• Intimate auditorium with excellent sightlines
• Diverse dance performances from local and touring companies
• On-site dance studios offering classes for all levels
• Café-bar with a relaxed pre-show atmosphere
• Historic architecture with original features

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit The Dancehouse Theatre

Cheapest way inMADchester: Factory Records & Hacienda Self-Guided Puzzle Walk4.1★ · 14 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$8 per personSee dates →Most bookedThe Manchester City Stadium Tour4.9★ · 5,893 travelers~1 hourFree cancellationFrom$44 per personSee dates →Top ratedFour hour walking wine tasting tour of Manchester's best bars5★ · 155 travelers~4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$123 per personSee dates →

Good for

How travelers rate it

Know before you go

• Arrive early to explore the café-bar and soak in the atmosphere.
• The theatre is in a busy area; allow time for traffic if driving.
• Some shows sell out quickly, so book in advance.
• The bar serves drinks and snacks before the show and during intermission.

A bit of history

Opened in 1926 as a cinema, the building later became a dance hall and then a theatre. It was acquired by the Northern Ballet Theatre in the 1990s and refurbished as a dedicated dance venue. Today it operates as an independent theatre.