What if everything that came from the past was influenced by the future?
Enter a musical time warp where sound resonates across the ages. Manchester Collective team up with electronic musician Clark and choreographer Melanie Lane for a groundbreaking performance merging the worlds of dance, classical and contemporary music.
Clark’s career spans a quarter of a century, encompassing the full spectrum of electronic – from hard-hitting techno to soft ambient and found sound. It’s seen him play Berghain, work alongside Thom Yorke, and more recently score films, TV shows and games.
Known for their boundary-pushing performances of classical music, Manchester Collective can be found everywhere, from underground nightclubs to the concert hall. The shape-shifting ensemble defies expectations, crafting their own brand of ‘radical human experiences’.
Expect bold, visceral choreography from Melanie Lane. From collaborations with fashion designers and visual artists to theatre makers, her work has crossed continents. Refractions continues her long-time creative partnership with Clark.
Refractions is produced by Manchester Collective and is co-commissioned by the Southbank Centre and Bridgewater Hall
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We’re all about the atmosphere and immersion. You might encounter lighting to set the mood, amplified sound to deliver music straight to your eardrums, or maybe a little bit of haze.
Between pieces, our performers often share a short explanation about the music. They might chat about what to listen out for, the themes or their personal experience.
Rather than the standard black attire, our musicians wear what they feel is comfortable: whether that’s a colourful dress, or a woolly jumper if it’s chilly.
To us, music is most powerful when it’s immediate and personal, not bound by convention. Whether you’re a first-timer or veteran concert-goer, you’re invited to a new kind of classical music experience.
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From warehouses to concert halls, everywhere we play is unique.
At underground and independent venues, it’s a more intimate experience. You can expect to get up close and personal to the musicians, hear outside noise and grab a drink at the bar. Don’t forget to wrap up warm!
The “Book” links under Dates & Tickets lead to venue websites. There, you’ll be able to find specific access information. Please note that some independent venues might be standing shows, with the option to request a seat if you need one. This will be specified on the booking page.
If you have any questions at all about access, get in touch at events@manchestercollective.co.uk and we’ll do our best to accommodate your needs.
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Our performances aren’t formal – so you don’t have to be either! Dress in whatever style makes you feel comfortable, just as our performers do.
If you’ve never been to a classical concert before, you might be worried about rules and etiquette. That’s not what we’re about. You’re free to bring the same excitement and respect you would to any other performance.
Depending on the venue, you might be able to take a couple photos and short videos during the show. If you’re filming the entire gig, we promise we have better recordings on our YouTube channel.
All we ask is that you listen with an open mind and ears.
“Beauty and brutality, blistering noise and otherworldly calm”
PITCHFORK, SUS DOG BY CLARK
“A patchwork of styles that shouldn’t work together but, by some mysterious alchemy, absolutely do.”
THE TIMES, LAD
Experimental programming.
Engaging performances.
Radical human experiences.
