Sound Control

Monday 5th September

Knitting In The Snug at the Kings Arms

Knitting/sewing/stitching may sit in that uncomfortable middle ground between kitsch and cool, but we’ve typically found that people who try it really, really enjoy it. So why not give it a go in the comfort of the Kings Arms, one of the shining lights of Salford’s pub scene.

Tuesday 6th September

Beirut at Manchester Academy 1

That Zach Condon has made himself huge off the back of music that combines Balkan folk with just a hint of Western pop would be surprising were it not for the fact that he’s a remarkably talented individual. We saw him play Club Academy way back when, but he’s long since outgrown that venue, and is more than capable of captivating the cavernous Academy 1.

Wednesday 7th September to Sunday 11th September

Edward II at the Royal Exchange Theatre

The work of Christopher Marlowe was enough of an influence on William Shakespeare that, since the 17th century, certain “scholars” have argued that Marlowe was the true author of Shakespeare’s works. Such ludicrous frivolities tend to overshadow the fact that Marlowe was a fine author in his own right, responsible for some truly fantastic plays, of which Edward II is one of the best. Telling the story of the titular king’s reign, this is not one to be missed.

Wednesday 7th September

Arty Farty Film Party: Dr. Strangelove at An Outlet

One of the funniest films you could ever hope to see, thanks to humanity’s infinite capacity for waging war Dr. Strangelove remains as relevant as ever. If you haven’t seen it yet, you’re in for a treat: this is laugh a minute cinema at its finest.

The Rapture at Club Academy

Much loved for a brief window back in 2003, on record The Rapture never set our world alight, but the band are a different beast live, with audiences tending to lose themselves in “House of Jealous Lovers” and the like. Back with new album In The Grace Of Your Love, here’s hoping they’ve lost none of their onstage edge: Club Academy should prove to be the perfect venue for them.

Thursday 8th September

Elliott Eastwick’s World Famous Pub Quiz at the Black Dog Ballroom

Pub quizzes may be ten a penny, but it’s always worth escaping from the comfort zone of your regular establishment and discovering what questions unfamiliar quizmasters have to throw at you. The Black Dog Ballroom run their music- and film-based quiz every Thursday, and Elliott Eastwick has a reputation as a particularly charismatic host. And who doesn’t enjoy the glory of taking home prizes plucked from the city’s pound shops?

King Creosote & Jon Hopkins at the Deaf Institute

One of the most enchanting albums released all year, Diamond Mine combines the songs of the legendary King Creosote with the field recordings and ambient soundscapes of Jon Hopkins. On record, the effect is absolutely beautiful; it’ll be interesting to see how well it translates to the live arena. Support comes from the wonderful Francois & The Atlas Mountains.

Friday 9th September to Saturday 10th September

Heresy N Heelz at Sound Control

Burlesque seems to be growing in popularity in Manchester – with several active troupes and a handful of locations offering classes – which means that the timing of this two-day event couldn’t be better. Heresy N Heelz, one of the UK’s premier purveyors and promoters of the artform, will be hosting an evening of burlesque and twisted cabaret on the Friday night, featuring live performances and the like; on the Saturday, more than 20 traders will be selling their wares, with clothing and accessories covering everything from vintage and fetish. Not to be missed!

Sunday 11th September

Taxi Driver at the Cornerhouse

Whilst a matinee showing of Taxi Driver might not be the best start to a day for those nursing a hangover, for everyone else it represents a rare opportunity to see one of the greatest films of all time on the big screen. Robert De Niro provides a tour de force as Travis Bickle, the disaffected cabbie who has failed to readjust to everyday life after returning from Vietnam.

You could be forgiven for mistaking Manchester for a ghost town in August; the promise of guaranteed sun or a week of music a la wellies proves too much of a lure for some. But if you’re still around, there’s plenty to keep you entertained in our fair city.

Here are a few of this week’s highlights:

Monday 1st August to Saturday 6th August

As You Like It at the Royal Exchange Theatre

The Royal Exchange Theatre has a strong track record of putting on excellent Shakespeare adaptations, and As You Like It is one of the bard’s superior comedies. This is the last week of its run, so catch it now or miss out forever. Features the immortal “All the world’s a stage, And all the men and women merely players” monologue.

Tuesday 2nd August

Halle Youth Orchestra and Youth Choir at the Royal Northern College of Music

Halle’s worldwide reputation for excellence is something Manchester can take a great deal of pride in, and any event affiliated with the famous orchestra is worth at least considering when you’re plotting out your week. They’re performing a selection of the works they played during a recent tour of Cornwall.

Wednesday 3rd August

Meet The Brewer with Flying Dog at Port Street Beer House

The second ever Port Street Meet The Brewer event will be well worth attending if the first one is anything to go by: expect quality beers, excellent pub food, interesting conversation, and an altogether memorable evening.

Stitched Up Swap Shop at Creative Corner Cafe

Of course, if fashion ranks higher on your list of priorities than beer, and if you’re a fan of the upcycling trend, then you’ll possibly be more at home here. Recently new to Whalley Range, the Creative Corner Cafe is making an admirable attempt to establish an art scene in a suburb which isn’t exactly known for its artistic endeavours.

Friday 5th August

An Evening with MCR Scenewipe at Fuel Cafe Bar

MCR Scenewipe has grown impressively in a short space of time, and should be particularly lauded for its free events at Fuel. Their latest features a trio of artists – Walton Hesse (an Americana Sebadoh), T.G. Elias (M. Ward-esque Americana, complete with harmonica), and Jo Rose (earnest Americana) – who are all worth an evening of your time.

Saturday 6th August

Speed Date UK Premiere at Sound Control

Here at Onward, Manchester we keep our eyes open not just for the best events, but for the most interesting too. So while the trio of bands that are playing this night are not exactly to our tastes, how often do you get to attend a premiere in Manchester? A chance to experience the work of young filmmakers before they (potentially) become huge.

Sunday 7th August

Scrabble Club at the Deaf Institute

Is the very existence of a Scrabble club proof (if any were needed) that this whole twee trend has gone too far? Almost certainly. Nonetheless, it sounds like a perfectly pleasant way to wile away the Sunday hours. Later on, the same venue is hosting an open mic night; as always, approach with caution.

—Onward, Manchester.

Archive

Things to do: Monday 5th September to Sunday 11th September

Things to do: Monday 1st August to Sunday 7th August

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