Big Names, Big Venue: Musical Stars Gather in Manchester
Manchester isn’t messing around when it comes to festive celebrations this year. The city’s newest arena, Co-op Live, is going all-in for a December bash that could set a new standard for Christmas events in the North. On 20 December 2024, 'Manchester at the Musicals: A Festive Celebration' will unleash a tidal wave of musical theatre talent, fronted by none other than Sheridan Smith and Samantha Barks. These two powerhouses are set to belt out classics from The Greatest Showman, Cilla, Frozen, and Les Misérables, giving fans a taste of West End magic right in the heart of Manchester.
Sheridan Smith, known for her electric stage presence and recent double Olivier wins, has a legion of fans who remember her star turns in Funny Girl and her BAFTA-winning TV roles. Samantha Barks, fresh from stunning audiences in Frozen as Elsa, brings her mighty vocals and experience from the film and West End stages of Les Mis. Throw in Alice Fearn, another favourite from Wicked and Come From Away, and John Owen-Jones, the man with one of the most famous voices in the British theatre thanks to his work in The Phantom of the Opera and Les Mis, and you’ve got a night that covers all the musical bases. Rumour has it, more surprise guests are set to be revealed as the date approaches.
A Festive Transformation: More Than Just a Concert
But this isn’t just about singing big songs on a big stage. Co-op Live is pulling out all the stops to transform the arena into a full-blown winter wonderland. You’ll find festive decorations at every turn, twinkling lights, and seasonal food and drink that goes way beyond your standard arena snacks—think spiced hot chocolate, mulled wine, and holiday treats that’ll put you in the spirit before the show even starts.
If you’ve ever felt that most concerts overlook the details, this is your chance to see what happens when the atmosphere gets as much attention as the music. Organisers promise interactive surprises throughout the venue—no word yet on what exactly that means, but expect plenty for families and kids to get involved with, making it a perfect fit for a pre-Christmas night out.
Backing the vocal fireworks is the Manchester Camerata, one of the city’s own musical institutions. With a reputation for inventive arrangements and an ability to glide between classical and pop with ease, the orchestra is taking charge of both the musical theatre anthems and newly adapted festive versions. That means familiar songs will get a holiday twist, giving fans something they haven’t heard before and making sure the night feels unique to Manchester.
Capacity isn’t going to be an issue either—Co-op Live’s 20,000 seats mean families, superfans, and the musically curious can all soak it up together. Demand was sky-high as soon as tickets dropped, with Co-op members snapping up early access before things opened to the rest of the city. The organisers have made it really clear: this isn’t some invite-only event; the whole point is bringing everyone in Manchester together for a night of proper Christmas joy.
You don’t often get this kind of show outside the West End, but with a lineup stacked like this and an arena ready to become Manchester’s festive playground, it looks like the North is ready to set a new standard for holiday celebrations. For Manchester at the Musicals fans and anyone who loves a bit of glitz with their Christmas, this night is already shaping up to be a highlight of the season.
