A 1,500-seater live music venue, the O2 Ritz Manchester is one of the leading entertainment centres in the northwest of England. It was originally constructed in 1927 and has a hugely popular sprung floor, making it ideal for dancing – one of the main uses it was put to in the early days. Since then, the O2 Ritz Manchester has been used for all sorts of performances. The building was awarded a Grade II listed status in 1994 and the owners subsequently carried out an extensive refurbishment in keeping with the structure’s many original design aesthetics. Completed in 2011, this programme of repair and upgrade cost a reported £2 million.

O2 Ritz Manchester events

As one of the most prestigious live music venues in Manchester, the O2 Ritz has a long history of staging some of the best bands to tour the region. Big-name acts, such as the Beatles, Snow Patrol and the Dropkick Murphys, have all put on gigs there. In addition, a number of Manchester’s favourite bands and performers have taken to its stage. These include the likes of the Smiths, the Happy Mondays, Beady Eye and the Stone Roses.

Situated on Whitworth Street West in the heart of the city, the O2 Ritz Manchester is currently used for nightclub events and discos, as well as live music. A regular Saturday night club called Projekt has been running for some time. In the past, club promoters held events such as Propaganda, Erasmus Party and GoGo.

O2 Ritz Manchester information

The venue has a number of bars and other facilities that include a cloakroom, where it is possible to leave a few items for a fee. Most of the live shows that are put on are restricted to individuals who are 14 years of age or older. Under 18s will need to be accompanied by an adult. Nevertheless, some child-friendly events are available for younger audience members but the venue has a policy of not accepting any children who are under eight years of age, whether they are accompanied or not.

There is no parking at the venue, nor is there a designated drop-off point; however, access by tram, train and bus is relatively easy. The closest street parking bays are located on Great Marlborough Street and there is a privately run car park nearby, on First Street. Wheelchair places are available at the O2 Ritz Manchester but these are limited in number and provided on a first come, first served basis. Step-free access is provided at the venue’s southern entrance and an accessible toilet is available in the main auditorium.

Similar venues to the O2 Ritz Manchester

Try checking for tickets for The Deaf Institute or Manchester Academy 1 at StubHub if you are seeking live music in the city.