Either side of an innocuous, unremarkable river live two immigrant communities shunned by the city in which they live; yet, these communities came here in search of better times away from pogrom and famine.
Where is "here"? Well…"here" can be anywhere, but for the sake of argument let’s say 19th-Century Manchester and the River Irk that flows through it. Though their cultures seem wildly different, there is more that unites them that divides them, in spite of the noxious river between them.
In this imagined meeting-of-worlds gig theatre, the musical fusion of Jewish Klezmer and Irish Trad is explored in all its joy, melancholy, love, sadness, and infectious danceability; although perhaps discordant on first hearing, Amid the Mirk Over the Irk explores the natural and quirky points of intersection between these 2 deeply personally significant folk dance musics and - by association - their cultures, through their 7-8 piece folk-fusion band, short stories, and evocative visuals. It explores the intrigue, awkwardness, and respect of unfamiliar cultures sharing the same space.
The show took Manchester by storm in 2016 when it played to full houses at the Manchester Jewish Museum featuring local legends Mike McGoldrick, Dezi Donnolly, and Ange Durcan.
Since then it has played around the North West, reaching the finals for Manchester Culture Awards and Celtic Connections Danny Kyle Open Stage competition in 2022.
Content Warning: reference to death, description of the mistreatment of people and cultures.
10% discount on group bookings of 5 or more people.
This is a ticketed event in two halves separated by a short interval when non-alcoholic hot and cold drinks can be purchased.
Doors open from 7.10pm for a prompt 7.30pm start. For security reasons you may not be allowed entry prior to 7.10pm, and there is a bag check on entry, so we recommend travelling light.
Stretford Public Hall has step-free access with lift access throughout the building.
We also offer a complimentary carer ticket for those who require a carer. Please email daniel@modalways.co.uk if you would like to request one.
| Cost | ||
|---|---|---|
Standard Ticket |
£15.00 | |
Unwaged/Low Income Ticket
A discounted ticket for those on low income, no income, and/or are entitled to work/disability benefits (e.g. Universal Credit, ESA, PIP).
|
£8.00 | |
Student
For those in full-time education
|
£8.00 |
Stretford Public Hall
Chester Road
Stretford
Manchester
M32 0LG
There is a small car park for the venue itself plus a public car park at the Stretford Mall shopping centre nearby. On the street parking is restricted to residents only.
Amenities