We're a bit different

Aviva Studios is a global destination for arts, music and culture - and an event venue like no other. Born out of Manchester International Festival, at Aviva Studios, collaborate with the very best event, production and technical teams to bring your vision to life.

Our spaces are without limits. From product launches and brand activations to fashion shows, gigs and public events, do something a bit different here.

In the heart of Manchester’s new and vibrant neighbourhood of St John’s, there’s no better place to put on a proper show. And if you want to make a lasting difference – to people, communities or the planet – join us and invent a better tomorrow together.

To discuss a bespoke package for your event email us at venuehire@factoryinternational.org. If you're looking to book for a gig or concert, email music@factoryinternational.org.

Our Spaces

At Aviva Studios, we're shapeshifters and explore the art of the possible.

With up to 13,200m2 of flexible indoor and outdoor space and room for up to 5,000 people, our spaces are without limits.

Four unique, flexible spaces are available for you to use in your own way. These can be hired individually or in combination to create large-scale, impactful events, with flexibility throughout.

Photo of the audience watching Free Your Mind in the Hall

The Hall

Capacity: up to 1,500

The Hall provides a beautiful theatre and concert space, centred on flexibility. It has tiered seating with the option to be removed altogether, with wheelchair access on all levels. The supersized stage between the Hall and the Warehouse connects each space, so you can take your event to the next level.

Dancers on the runway in Free Your Mind underneath lit up screens

The Warehouse

Capacity: up to 5,000

The Warehouse is a space to make an impact - taller than four double-decker buses and longer than a passenger jet.. It’s a blank canvas, equipped with a retractable wall to the Hall, a universal technical grid, anchor points across the walls, a proscenium door and direct truck access. The only limit to this space is your imagination.

The Public Realm

Size: 2,100m2 of outdoor space

With south-facing views to the River Irwell, River Square is a truly unique outdoor events space. It's ideal for hosting pop-up brand activations, experiential marketing campaigns, live music or markets. The Undercroft runs below Factory International, creating a covered external space with WiFI and enabling activities to take place year-round.

Photo of visitors sat down in the Social

The Social

Weaving our space together is a network of social areas, including a ground-floor foyer under the arch of the Hall and Warehouse and a physical link to the adjacent Science and Industry Museum.

Our packages

If you’re looking for a location to wow your audiences, this is the place. Our team can work on a bespoke package for you, including:

  • Awards and Dinners

    For a venue that inspires and awes, Aviva Studios is the place. Bring people together in one of our expansive spaces to celebrate.
  • Brand and Product Launches

    Make a splash at Aviva Studios with soaring spaces that flex to your needs, allowing you to host a launch like no other.
  • Brand Activation

    Brands come alive at Aviva Studios. In the heart of Manchester, you can count on reaching a whole mix of audiences here.
  • Conferences and exhibitions

    Share ideas, spark innovation, and inspire delegates by hosting a conference or exhibition in one of our soaring spaces.
  • Christmas and Summer Parties

    We love to party, so why not join us? Put on a party that your team won’t forget.
  • Fashion events

    Our building pays homage to the city, and is a place to make a real statement.
  • Filming and broadcast events

    If you are looking for a striking location for your next shoot, Aviva Studios is the place to bring your vision to life.

CHANGE THE WORLD AT FACTORY INTERNATIONAL

If you share our commitment to diversity, community, sustainability or the future of the arts, then join us and invent a better tomorrow together.

Our Factory Academy makes creative skills and opportunities accessible to local people from all backgrounds, and by working with us you’ll be directly supporting its programmes. Find out more here.

Get in touch ↓ 

A venue like no other

Looking to wow? Get in touch and discuss a bespoke package for your event at venuehire@factoryinternational.org.

If you're looking to book for a gig or concert, email music@factoryinternational.org.

Sign up ↓