The List

The Forum

The Forum was converted in 1990 from a civic hall to a multi-purpose arts venue, and has become an important cultural hub for the town, supporting the creation of professional theatre, dance, visual arts and film in the area. It hosts touring theatre and music, stand--up comedy, talks and lectures and literary events. Barrow station is about 15 minutes' walk to the north, and the Forum is served by the 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 11 bus routes.

What's On @ The Forum

Calling Planet Earth

Calling Planet Earth

30 Jan 2026 - 11 Sept 2026

“The Show that Defines a Decade” A New Romantic Symphony that goes on a journey through one of the greatest musical Era’s of All Time – The Electrifying '80s Featuring songs from now legendary artists such as Duran Duran, Spandau Ballet, The Human League, Ultravox, Tears for Fears, Depeche Mode, OMD, Japan, ABC, Soft Cell and Many many more. Performed by an incredible live band with awesome symphonic arrangements combined with stunning vocals and cast this is the must see show that simply defines a decade.
The Magic of Motown

The Magic of Motown

18 Dec 2025 - 1 Nov 2026

Seen by millions, The Magic of Motown is back with its 20th Anniversary Tour! It’s no surprise that this show is one of the biggest success stories in British theatre history. Come celebrate our brand-new show as we Reach Out and show you there ain’t no mountain high enough with the biggest Motown party of the year. Get ready for all the hits, glittering costumes, dazzling dance routines and outstanding musicianship in this breath-taking live concert spectacular. You will be going Loco down in Acapulco as we take you back down memory lane with all the Motown classics from artists such as: Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, The Temptations, The Supremes, The Four Tops, Martha Reeves, The Jackson 5, Smokey Robinson, and many, more. Celebrate the sound of a generation with one very special night of The Magic of Motown! This is a tribute show and is no way affiliated with any original artists/estates/management companies or similar shows. The promoter reserves the right to alter the programme.
Hue & Cry

Hue & Cry

28 Mar 2026 - 31 Oct 2026

“They’ve lasted because they are brilliant” Radio 2 Brothers Patrick and Gregory Kane formed Hue and Cry in the ’80s and the duo made a huge impact with the release of their debut album Seduced and Abandoned (1987) which featured their first top ten single Labour of Love. The follow up album Remote continued the trend and produced the huge hits Looking for Linda and Violently. Albums like Stars Crash Down, Showtime and Jazz Not Jazz ensured Hue and Cry’s continued successful run through the ’90s, whilst their 2005 appearances as finalists on ITV’s primetime show Hit Me Baby One More Time, featuring their version of Beyonce’s Crazy In Love, thrust the band firmly back into the mainstream limelight. A number of successful album releases and accompanying live appearances followed which included Open Soul (2008), Xmasday (2009), Bitter Suite Again (2010), Hot Wire (2012), Remote: Major to Minor (2014), September Songs (2015), Pocketful of Stones (2017). To date Hue and Cry have sold in excess of two million records worldwide. In 2019, Hue and Cry sold out their Summer Nights at the Bandstand show at Glasgow’s Kelvingrove park within forty-eight hours and finished the year by playing live all over the UK. With the global pandemic bringing live touring to a halt during 2020/21, Hue and Cry introduced their pioneering Live from Lockdown streaming shows which were broadcast live from the band’s Glasgow based studio and viewed online by thousands of fans around the world. A collection of their favourite tracks from these shows was released as a Best of Lockdown album (2022). Hue and Cry have sold tens of thousands of concert tickets worldwide. As well as performing alongside some of the greatest artists in music history – appearing with U2, James Brown, Madonna, Al Green and Van Morrison to name but a few – the band have undertaken a multitude of their own headline tours and made numerous festival appearances. Hue and Cry were recognised by their peers when they were recently presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Scottish Music Awards. The band are currently working on a brand new album and have made a welcome return to performing in front of audiences.
Queen of the Night - A Tribute to Whitney Houston
Queen of the Night. A Tribute to Whitney Houston returns in 2026 for another show-stopping celebration, following sold-out tours across the UK. Established as the UK's biggest Whitney Houston tribute, this breath-taking production honours the music, legacy, and unmatched talent of the legendary Whitney Houston. Celebrate Whitney's remarkable musical repertoire in an electrifying production that pays homage to her timeless songs with sensational vocalists and a full live band. Prepare to be captivated by an extraordinary journey through three decades of all-time hits such as 'I Wanna Dance With Somebody', 'One Moment In Time', 'I'm Every Woman', 'I Will Always Love You', 'My Love Is Your Love', 'So Emotional', 'Run To You', 'Saving All My Love', 'How Will I Know', 'Million Dollar Bill', 'The Greatest Love Of All', and more. Join us for an unmissable evening filled with live music, captivating choreography, and powerful vocals, as we pay homage to the one and only queen of the night. Please note, this is a tribute production and not associated with the Estate of Whitney Houston.
Frankie's Guys

Frankie's Guys

11 Apr 2026 - 4 Sept 2026

‘Frankie’s Guys’ is a fast paced, energetic production with an authentic live concert feel. Putting their own charismatic stamp on timeless classics such as, 'Big Girls Don't Cry', 'Walk Like a Man', ‘Sherry’, 'Oh What a Night', the boys take you on a nostalgic trip down memory lane and remind you exactly why The Four Seasons sold over 100 million records and earned themselves a place in the prestigious 'Rock and Roll Hall of Fame'. With slick choreography, charm, charisma, brilliant audience participation and amazing live vocals and a great live band, it’s clear to see why ’Frankie's Guys’ are receiving standing ovations all over the world.
Lindisfarne

Lindisfarne

12 Dec 2025 - 4 Dec 2026

The Oxted Sessions is delighted to welcome legendary 70s folk-rock pioneers Lindisfarne. With a classic five-piece line-up of long-time members, fronted by founder-member Rod Clements on vocals, mandolin, fiddle and slide guitar. With a repertoire of unforgettable songs like Meet Me On The Corner, Fog On The Tyne, Lady Eleanor and Run For Home, and a reputation for live performance second-to-none, Lindisfarne’s power to galvanize audiences and get them on their feet remains undimmed.
An Evening of Burlesque Cabaret

An Evening of Burlesque Cabaret

7 Feb 2026 - 26 Sept 2026

A night of laughter, cabaret, mystery, and glamour! Roll up, roll up...a scintillating night out of sparkling entertainment – the UK’s longest running burlesque show – is back touring the nation. And, it’s bigger than ever. Join us for the good old-fashioned night out as we bring you the ultimate variety show, blending stylish cabaret, comedy, music, circus and burlesque to light up all your senses. With world-class entertainers and stars of the stage and screen – prepare for an extravaganza of glitz and glamour! Expect fun, feathers and fabulous costumes as we pick from the finest selection of specialty artistes, cabaret and circus stars, comedians and champagne showgirls! It’s the perfect night for everyone. An Evening of Burlesque is filled with artistic spectacle that has enraptured audiences for centuries. This sensational variety show brings together a bounty of beautiful stars for an unrivalled variety show for the 21st Century! Expect the unexpected with plenty of glitter and glamour! It’s cocktails and cabaret o’clock! An Evening of Burlesque Cabaret - we are waiting for you!
Lost In Music - One Night at the Disco
Get ready to recreate the Magical '70s and let us take you on a musical journey straight to the heart of Disco! Relive some of the greatest songs of all time from Artists such as Donna Summer, Gloria Gaynor, Earth Wind & Fire, Sister Sledge and Chic. This show boasts a sensational live band, incredibly talented cast and stunning vocals and is sure to have you dancing all night long! So, come dressed to impress as we celebrate the golden age of Disco! With songs such as Never Can Say Goodbye, On The Radio, Hot Stuff, Car Wash, Boogie Wonderland and many, many more! It's the feel-good show of the year! Lose yourself with us and leave your troubles at home! This is a tribute show and is in no way affiliated with any original artists/estates/management companies or similar shows.
Chris McCausland: Yonks!

Chris McCausland: Yonks!

17 Jan 2026 - 17 May 2026

You might have seen him on Strictly Come Dancing, Scared of the Dark, Would I Lie to You, Have I Got News for You, The Royal Variety, QI, Blankety Blank, The Last Leg, and tons more as well. He's been called an "overnight success" - Even though he's been doing this for bloody yonks! Chris McCausland is hitting the road again with another masterclass in stand-up comedy that has literally been yonks in the making. The last tour was a sell-out, so get your tickets now!
The Legends of American Country Show
Now seen by over 350,000 fans live and watched by millions on TV Europes No.1 multi award winning show. The Legends of American Country returns for another fantastic night of toe tapping country nostalgia. The tour will showcase highly acclaimed tributes to Dolly Parton , Johnny Cash, Don Williams, Patsy Cline and Kenny Rogers and new tributes to icons Hank Williams, Charley Pride, Glen Campbell, Tammy Wynette, John Denver and Jim Reeves with countless other well-known singalong hit songs in this must see musical extravaganza. The show features 3 superb singers Kelan Browne, Tracey McAuley and Antony McBrien who are all accompanied by a superb live band of musicians with that authentic Tennessee sound coupled with authentic stage set and state of the art production that will transport you all the way hand clapping and toe tapping to Nashville and back in one night . One thing is for sure if its country music you like then this is the only show in town!
Kevin Bloody Wilson

Kevin Bloody Wilson

6 Oct 2026 - 31 Oct 2026

The Kevin Bloody Wilson show is not just a concert performance; for most, it’s a full on event and an opportunity to tick from your bucket-list, a chance to see Australia’s most unique international comedy legend. In the more than 30 years since his first album (Hey Santa Claus, Living Next Door to Alan) Kev’s concerts continues to sellout around the globe. Selling upward of 4 million units and being nominated for Australian of the Year have helped cement his place as, in the words of Billy Connolly, ‘The world’s funniest Australian’.
The Comedy Store

The Comedy Store

1 Feb 2026 - 13 Dec 2026

With nearly 40 years’ experience in the business and as the premier name in comedy, The Comedy Store is renowned as a breeding ground for new comedy talent, and remains the place to see tomorrow’s stars today. The likes of Eddie Izzard, John Bishop, Jimmy Carr, Rhod Gilbert and Sarah Millican, have all cut their comedy teeth with us. We bring you “The Best In Stand Up” from around the globe, showcasing the brightest names in comedy today. Simply the funniest show you’ll see all year!
Illegal Eagles

Illegal Eagles

1 Feb 2026 - 4 Dec 2026

The World’s Official No. 1 Eagles tribute returns for another outstanding show promising more of their trademark musical prowess, acute attention to detail, and incredible showmanship. This phenomenal group of musicians have been touring for over two decades and remain true Eagles fanatics! Their longevity and continued international acclaim are due in no small part to their extraordinary mastery of the Eagles’ distinctive sound. Featuring the very best from the Eagles’ repertoire including Hotel California, Take it to the Limit, Life in the Fast Lane, Take It Easy, Lyin’ Eyes, Desperado and plenty more!
Count Arthur Strong is Charles Dickens in 'A Christmas Carol'
Count Arthur Strong is Charles Dickens in, 'A Christmas Carol' 2025 Watch as the beloved comedian takes on the role of the iconic Charles Dickens in this festive adaptation of the classic tale. With his signature wit and charm, be prepared to laugh and be moved by this fantastic show. Get your tickets now and make it a merry holiday season with Count Arthur Strong!
Francis Rossi

Francis Rossi

16 Apr 2026 - 17 Apr 2026

Francis Dominic Nicholas Michael Rossi, OBE is an English musician. He is the co-founder, lead singer, lead guitarist and the sole continuous member of the rock band Status Quo.
Emilio Santoro as Elvis

Emilio Santoro as Elvis

6 Feb 2026 - 6 Nov 2026

Crowned ‘2024 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist World Champion’ by Elvis Presley Enterprises at Graceland, Emilio Santoro brings his award-winning Elvis Presley show to the UK. Performing with his authentic 50’s live band, The Creoles, Emilio celebrates Elvis’ younger years in spectacular style, taking you back in time to when Elvis changed the world and music forever! Put on your ‘Blue Suede Shoes’ and get ‘All Shook Up’ for the greatest Rock ‘n’ Roll hits of all time including Jailhouse Rock, Devil in Disguise, Can’t Help Falling in Love, Hound Dog, Suspicious Minds & many more.
Limehouse Lizzy

Limehouse Lizzy

18 Dec 2025 - 19 Sept 2026

Limehouse Lizzy continue to keep the spirit of Celtic rock icon Philip Lynott and his band Thin Lizzy alive, well and dominating stages worldwide. The band have also added a tribute into their show to ex-Thin Lizzy guitarist (and world renowned solo artist) Gary Moore. From their Official PRS award, performing for Virgin Atlantic in Barbados, T.V. appearances (BBC 2’s ‘Arena’ amongst others), and to actually being recruited to record and tour by members of the original Thin Lizzy, Limehouse Lizzy enter their 25th year with their most explosive show and critically-acclaimed line-up yet. The boys are back!
Martin Kemp: Back to the 80s

Martin Kemp: Back to the 80s

12 Dec 2025 - 11 Dec 2026

Get ready to step back in time for the ultimate 80s party with the legendary Martin Kemp! Dig out your neon leg warmers, leather jackets, and shoulder pads because we're bringing the BIGGEST and BEST hits of the 80s BACK to Manchester! Whether you're a die-hard Spandau Ballet fan or just love a night of epic throwback tunes, this is THE event you don't want to miss. Martin Kemp, the music icon himself, will be swapping his bass for the decks, spinning all the classic 80s anthems that defined a generation. Expect non-stop feel-good vibes, iconic tunes, and an electric atmosphere as you dance the night away! From Madonna to Michael Jackson, channel your inner 80s legend and show off your best retro look because the wilder, the better!
Taylormania

Taylormania

11 Dec 2025 - 25 Sept 2026

An award-winning extravaganza that plays tribute to one of the leading contemporary recording artists of our time. Katy Ellis a self Confessed ‘Swiftie’ with an incredible live band and dancers promises to deliver the most authentic recreation of a Taylor Swift show you will ever see. The show has already taken ‘Swiftie’ fans across the world by storm and features all of Taylor’s much loved hits including ; Shake It Off, Blank Space, Love Story, You Belong With Me, Look What You Made Me Do, I Knew You Were Trouble and many, many more.
T-Rextasy

T-Rextasy

13 Dec 2025 - 12 Sept 2026

Marc Bolan, with his band T.Rex, was one of the most flamboyant and charismatic stars of the original glam rock era. With Bolan's special ingredient of Rock-a-Boogie songs, the band had a string of huge hits throughout the 1970s including Love to Boogie, Telegram Sam, Jeepster and 20th Century Boy. T.Rextasy have now been performing around the world for over 20 years, a career that ironically out lives Marc’s very own T.Rex. The band is now accepted as the world’s only official live tribute band dedicated to Marc Bolan & T.Rex, and the only band endorsed and approved by Marc Bolan’s family, estate, original ex-members of T.Rex, and Bolan’s catalogue management. Truly a rock’n’roll concert for all ages - If you would like to know exactly what a Marc Bolan concert was like in the 1970s, this show is for you!
Carl Hutchinson

Carl Hutchinson

5 Sept 2026 - 5 Dec 2026

Carl has a unique blend of storytelling and physical comedy, with a dash of down-to-earth banter. He's known for his sharp characterisations, impeccable timing, and energetic delivery, which has earned him a reputation as a "powerhouse comedian" on the UK circuit  ‘Fine Whine’ is a brand new show and is Hutchinson’s biggest and best tour yet! The show centres around Carl’s demands of being a modern-day dad & finding his place in society. He's a must-see act for anyone who loves laughter and good storytelling.
The Enchanted Princess Ball

The Enchanted Princess Ball

23 Oct 2026 - 23 Oct 2026

Once upon a time, in the land of fairytales, Chester the Castle Jester had muddled up all the invitations to The Royal Ball! Join him as he goes on an adventure to meet Cinderella at The Royal Castle, The Little Mermaid Under The Sea, Princess Rapunzel in the Tallest Tower, Belle in her little bookshop in Paris and The Snow Queen in the freezing village of Snowydale to deliver all the invitations by hand to make they all make it to The Enchanted Princess Ball. This Royal Princess Extravaganza is a fast paced, high energy and engaging musical toe tapping adventure that is perfect for the whole family featuring stunning sets, sparkling costumes and lots of songs, dance, laughs and audience participation!
Michael Starring Ben

Michael Starring Ben

18 Jan 2026 - 12 Dec 2026

Take a journey back in time to remember Michael Jackson – the man, the music and the magic.  MichaelⓇ Starring Ben is a hit theatre production starring the UK's ultimate Michael Jackson tribute star, Ben Bowman. Not only does he look and sound like the King of Pop, but he's honed his routine so carefully that audiences truly believe they are watching Michael Jackson himself.  The show features a live band, dazzling costumes and the performer's iconic dance routines. It also showcases the greatest hits of Michael Jackson and also of The Jackson 5 including Beat It, Billie Jean, Thriller and Man in the Mirror.
Shaun Ryder

Shaun Ryder

7 Oct 2026 - 20 Nov 2026

An evening with frontman of the Happy Mondays. This is a fascinating insight into life in one of the UK's most loved bands. Shaun Ryder is from Salford, Greater Manchester, where in 1980 he formed Happy Mondays. The band signed to Factory Records and their releases included the two classic albums 'Bummed' in 1988 followed by 'Pills 'n' Thrills and Bellyaches' in 1990. Later Shaun started Black Grape releasing the album 'It's Great When You're Straight.. Yeah'. Following his achievements with both bands he received the 'Godlike Genius Award' from NME in 2000. Shaun also moved into TV taking part in the tenth series of the TV show 'I'm a Celebrity.. Get Me Out Of Here!' in 2010 where he was runner up. He also went on to have his own TV programme 'Shaun Ryder on UFOs' on The History Channel in 2013. Shaun has recently been a guest on several TV shows including 'Room 101' with Frank Skinner, 'Stars and Their Cars' with Paddy McGuinness, 'The Chase: Celebrity Special' with Bradley Walsh, 'Sam Delaney's News Thing, This Morning and 'Big Star's Little Star'.
Kerry Ellis

Kerry Ellis

17 Jan 2026 - 19 Nov 2026

Kerry Ellis is the Queen of the West End. From My Fair Lady to We Will Rock You, from Les Miserables to Wicked, in both the West End and on Broadway, she has starred in musical theatre’s biggest roles, making shows her own and earning her numerous awards. Her list of credits is remarkable and also includes Oliver!, Cats, Miss Saigon, Chess, The War Of The Worlds, and Anything Goes, among many others. She has recorded 4 studio albums, and toured the world both as a solo artist and with her good friend Sir Brian May. And now the star who grew up admiring musical theatre icons Liza Minnelli and Barbra Streisand is looking back on her illustrious career. Singing songs from the biggest musicals and telling stories about how she came to play roles, this is a unique opportunity to see and hear the West End’s biggest hits in a very intimate setting on a tour of the UK. Don’t miss it
Tom Gates Epic Stage Show

Tom Gates Epic Stage Show

21 Feb 2026 - 13 Jul 2026

Pure fun for the whole family whether you're a lover of the books or new to Tom and his friends! Based on the bestselling books by Liz Pichon, and brand new for 2025, Tom Gates EPIC Stage Show comes to our theatre, bringing alive the illustrations and music that make Tom Gates hugely popular around the world! With catchy tunes and hilarious performances, this fantastic new stage show brings the best of the Brilliant World of Tom Gates into one live show! Produced by Mark Thompson Productions and directed by Miranda Larson.
Ross Noble: Cranium of Curiosities

Ross Noble: Cranium of Curiosities

11 Feb 2026 - 22 Mar 2026

What happens when pure comedy takes human form? What happens when a creature is created and bred to do stand up? Nobody knows because that isn’t a thing. What is a thing is Ross Noble doing a show. You can come and see it. This is it. Ross’s on-stage credits include 16 nationwide comedy tours and his recent critically acclaimed performance as Igor in Mel Brooks’ West End revival of monster hit musical Young Frankenstein, at London’s Garrick Theatre. As well as his on-stage work, Ross is a regular on national UK TV and radio programmes such as ‘QI’ (BBC One), ‘Have I Got News for You’ (BBC One) and ‘Just a Minute' (BBC Radio 4). Ross has fronted Ross Noble: Off Road (Dave) and presented his own surreal magazine show for radio, ‘Britain In Bits’ (BBC Radio 4).
Go Your Own Way - A Tribute to Fleetwood Mac
Go Your Own Way is the spellbinding show featuring music from the legendary multiple Grammy Award Winning Fleetwood Mac. Their rock 'n' roll legacy is beautifully performed by a highly talented and acclaimed ensemble of musicians who will take audiences on a powerful journey through their incredible song book. With hits including Dreams, Don’t Stop, Everywhere, Rhiannon, Gold Dust Woman, Little Lies, Big Love and many more. Paying tribute to their Rumours line up of Stevie, Mick, John, Christine & Lindsey, which remains their most commercially successful to date, this show perfectly recreates the live energy and passion of Fleetwood Mac.
Henry Normal

Henry Normal

17 Apr 2026 - 26 Apr 2026

Armed only with a chair and a mic, stories, jokes and poetry Henry Normal takes on the world looking for a win-win situation. Henry is a writer, poet, TV and film producer, founder of the Manchester Poetry Festival (now the Literature festival) and co-founder of the Nottingham Poetry Festival.
Manford's Comedy Club

Manford's Comedy Club

12 Dec 2025 - 28 Nov 2026

A message from Jason Manford: Hello there, Jason here, thanks for stopping by. I've been wondering for a while now, why is local stand up comedy not high up on the list of what people think about doing when looking for a great night out. So where do we go? The local pub for a few drinks? Cinema? Maybe a meal with a loved one or a cheeky midweek quiz with some mates. Some people still go out clubbing at one of those city centre discotheques! (shudders). Even ten-pin bowling is considered higher up than comedy! How can that be? How can throwing a massive rock at ten wooden things be more fun than sitting in a dark room with your friends or partner, drink in hand, watching someone funny tell jokes that make you all laugh from your belly for hours and hours and give you something to talk about all the next day? Well let me tell you this: There is a circuit of brilliant comics in this country who thrive in the live arena and want to make you laugh on a regular basis, so I'm going to tell you who they are. My plan is this: I'm going to carefully select some of my favourite comedians from the circuit and send them to a town near you. Simple! Keep on laughing folks, and remember, there's nothing like live!
Desperados

Desperados

18 Dec 2025 - 18 Sept 2026

The internationally acclaimed show, is regarded as one of the finest Eagles tributes you will ever witness. The show which is two hours plus, includes all the Eagles classics, and features unsurpassable sweet vocal harmony, layered over note perfect guitar breaks. Licks, slides, and solos. Furthermore, the boys will dip into the solo careers of Henley and Walsh, adding beautifully to the total Eagles experience.
Barbara Dickson

Barbara Dickson

13 Feb 2026 - 20 Jun 2026

Barbara Dickson’s interpretation of traditional music, married with 20th Century songs and material from the theatre is renowned and admired. She tours with a four-piece line up bi-annually, but in between, fulfils concert dates with the talented Nick Holland, who plays keyboards and sings. They intimately shape the music to suit the fact that only two people are on stage, sharing the space and filling it with superb, crafted sound. A mature mixture of sublime old and new songs.
John Bramwell

John Bramwell

17 Dec 2025 - 20 Jun 2026

John Harold Arnold Bramwell, to give him his full name, is perhaps best-known for his time as the songwriter and frontman of Manchester three-piece, I Am Kloot. However, he also possesses an enviable back catalogue as a solo artist and continues to work on new material under the guise of his latest band, John Bramwell & The Full Harmonic Convergence. Bramwell’s first studio output appeared in 1989, when he was performing and recording as Johnny Dangerously and entitled You Me & The Alarm Clock, an album The Guardian referred to as one of the ‘greatest albums you’ve never heard.’ Following a stint as a television presenter and as a member of the band, The Mouth, Bramwell formed I Am Kloot, with two members of The Mouth. They went on to record six studio albums, including the Mercury-Prize nominated album, Sky At Night. Since 2016, Bramwell has reverted to being a solo artist and tours continuously, around the UK and Europe. A home-recorded solo album, Leave Alone the Empty Spaces appeared in 2018 and the follow-up, a more expansive affair, with a working title of The Light Fantastic, is now scheduled for release in 2022.

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