The problem with Manchester is that, in its rush to define itself, it can be quick to paper over its cracks, over the contradictions which lend the city its character. This pride in its contrarian ...

Talking to Anna Appleby, the creative force behind Norrisette, is a giddy delight. Arguably Manchester’s most distinctive electronic pop artist, her conversational synapses trigger firework ...

Opposite Liverpool’s Empire Theatre, on the plaza in front of St George’s Hall, a Christmas market has installed itself for the festive season. Faux-chocolate box wooden chalets attempt an old-school ...

The Hallé Orchestra opened its new season last week with a moving and magnificent performance at Manchester’s Bridgewater Hall. Although the orchestra has played a handful of concerts over the summer, ...

As we approach the end of 2024, we’re looking back at the things that have brought us immense comfort during the year. For the team at Northern Soul, books were once again a source of great joy, and ...

Since publication in 1952, when it won the Carnegie Medal for outstanding children’s book by a British author, Mary Norton’s The Borrowers has been constantly in print. Its popularity has spawned ...

In a new series, Northern Soul writers share their food memories. From culinary trips to cherished family recipes and hidden restaurants, takeaways and cafés, we take a tasty trip down memory lane.

Miracle on 34 th Street was always going to be a commercial banker for the Liverpool Playhouse. Artistically though, for a theatre which made an exciting choice with its Christmas offering from ...

There’s an awful lot to admire in Threat, a poetry collection by Julia Webb which carefully guides the reader on a roller coaster ride through dysfunctional families, love, loss and domestic violence.

As we approach the end of 2024, we’re looking back at the things that have brought us immense ...