Alice Fearn leads a star-studded night of musical theatre magic at Manchester at the Musicals

This December, Manchester will be the place where holiday magic meets the dazzling energy of musical theatre. 

On 20th December, Manchester at the Musicals will transform the brand-new Co-op Live into a winter wonderland for one unforgettable night of festive cheer and show-stopping performances.

At the heart of this incredible event is a stellar line-up led by double Olivier Award-winner Sheridan Smith, joined by Samantha Barks, Alfie Boe, John Owen-Jones, and the incomparable Alice Fearne, who has captivated audiences for decades with her unforgettable voice and commanding stage presence.

Alice Fearn in Manchester at the Musicals

For Alice, this performance will be a glorious homecoming— a return to the kind of event that reminds her why she fell in love with musical theatre in the first place.

Alice’s journey to the stage wasn’t a straight path. “I fell into musical theatre,” she said, reflecting on her childhood in Cumbria. “My parents owned a care home. We had no connection to the industry. But I always loved musicals.” Her inspiration came from an old VHS tape of the 10th Anniversary of Les Misérables, which she describes as “a huge part of my life.” Even then, she didn’t dream of performing. 

A serious thumb injury while skiing derailed her initial plan to become a professional pianist, and it was her mother who suggested she explore musical theatre. With almost no experience, Alice auditioned for drama school. “I got into Mountview in London, and from then on, I knew this was what I was meant to do.”

Performing in Manchester

Her career has taken her to some of the world’s biggest stages, but events like Manchester at the Musicals hold a special place in her heart. “Performing outside of London is different,” Alice explained. “In Manchester venues, you feel a deep sense of appreciation from the audience. They don’t have to travel to the West End—we bring the magic to them. It’s special.”

This night promises to be just that: special. Featuring songs from iconic musicals like Wicked, Les Misérables, Frozen, and Hairspray, alongside festive classics such as White Christmas and All I Want for Christmas Is You.

Music from Wicked, Frozen and Hairspray

“I love performing songs from Wicked,” Alice said. Her name is synonymous with the magic of Wicked. Fans will know her as the spellbinding Elphaba, a role she made her own during her run at the Apollo Victoria Theatre in London. Alice reflects on her connection to the iconic character: “Elphaba was the role of a lifetime. It’s about strength, perseverance, and finding your voice—literally and figuratively. It’s an honour to carry those themes to new audiences.”

Manchester Camerata Orchestra and Pendleton School of Theatre Choir

Accompanied by the Manchester Camerata Orchestra and the vibrant Pendleton School of Theatre Choir, this concert is set to elevate every note and create a musical experience unlike any other. 

“When you’re backed by an orchestra of this size, it transforms the music. It’s thrilling for us as performers too, not just for the audience. It’s going to be a really special night.” 

Co-op Live, Manchester’s new state-of-the-art venue, adds another layer of excitement. Designed to deliver an unparalleled experience, it’s the perfect setting for a night that combines the magic of the West End with the festive spirit of the season. 

Performing a the Co-op Live

“It’s always exciting to perform somewhere new,” Alice said. “There’s an energy in a fresh space, and I can’t wait to feel it come alive with music. It presents a different challenge to some of the older theatres in the west end. I’ve only heard good things, the sound is supposed to be clear as a bell.”

Whether you’re a lifelong theatre lover, a Christmas enthusiast, or simply searching for a night out that’s truly unforgettable, Manchester at the Musicals has something for everyone. Alice summed it up perfectly: “You won’t see a line-up like this anywhere else. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime event. You simply can’t miss it.”

Tickets for Manchester at the Musicals

Tickets are already on sale starting at just £35, offering a chance to be part of something magical this Christmas. And for those looking to make the night even more memorable, the Co-op Backstage Club VIP package offers exclusive perks, including priority entrance, complimentary drinks, and a premium hospitality experience.

This Christmas, let Manchester at the Musicals remind you of the joy, wonder, and emotion that live musical theatre can bring. Book your tickets now, and prepare to be part of a night that will stay with you long after the final note has been sung.

You can get tickets by clicking here