Explore@RNCM brings together Manchester’s creative talent for a huge celebration

Bursting with rhythm and imagination, Explore@RNCM is back, and it’s bigger and bolder than ever.

On Sunday, the 29th of June, the Royal Northern College of Music flings open its doors for a spectacular celebration of Manchester’s extraordinary arts scene, inviting audiences of all ages to dive into an afternoon of live music, dance, circus, workshops, installations, and unexpected delights around every corner.

Now in its third year, this exciting festival is a true kaleidoscope of creativity, showcasing the rich cultural heartbeat of the city. From powerful African drumming and soulful Indian choirs to immersive soundscapes and hands-on art sessions, Explore@RNCM is a place where classical meets contemporary, where tradition dances with innovation, and where every corridor is bursting with energy and artistic expression.

Explore@RNCM returns

“This isn’t your average open day,” said Alice Brookes, Creative Engagement Manager at RNCM. “It’s a celebration: a mash-up of Manchester’s artistic talent that reflects the diversity and dynamism of the city we’re proud to call home.”

“Explore@RNCM  is an opportunity for us to open our doors and welcome a diverse range of performers into the building,” said Alice.

“We aim to showcase the breadth of the arts scene in Manchester, whether that’s music, dance, theatre, visual arts, or even circus performances.”

Exciting RNCM student-led projects feature alongside a stellar line-up of external performers, ranging from professional artists to local community groups.

“We like to say the event is for everyone,” Alice added. “It’s not just for kids or adults specifically: we design the programme to be accessible and enjoyable for all ages.”

Attendees can expect a full afternoon of performances and activities, with plenty of opportunities to watch, listen, and get involved. “Some people come to discover a new community group they might want to join, others just want to experience something different. We’ve got hands-on workshops for those who like to participate, and more relaxed performances for those who prefer to observe.”

What’s on at this year’s Explore@RNCM?

Two crowd favourites are making a welcome return this year. Tanante: an authentic and spectacular West African performance group including drummers, singers, dancers & musicians. They are performing twice, so you’ve got a great chance to see them! 

“They’re brilliant,” Alice said. “They get everyone moving, and they’ve added even more to their set this year.”

Also returning is Circus House, who will deliver two family-friendly cabaret shows along with workshops in acrobalance. Expect to see jugglers roaming around too, bringing a festive buzz to the day.

New to the line-up is the Bharatiya Vrund Gaan Indian Choir – the Indian adult choir of England who will be performing a selection of joyful, uplifting and soothing Indian choral compositions, accompanied by the harp and tabla.  

To balance out the buzz and excitement of the day, this year’s programme also offers moments of calm and stillness.

“We’ve realised it can all feel quite full-on, almost like a mini indoor festival,” said Alice. “So we’ve added some peaceful spaces too, for people who want to slow down and recharge.”

These include a relaxing sound bath and a beautiful session called Dances of Universal Peace, a gentle, movement-based workshop that brings people together through simple, mindful steps.

Open to everyone, this uplifting and heartwarming session is all about connection, and taking a moment to breathe.

The RNCM’s own community choir will also be performing, alongside an immersive installation on the theatre stage that invites visitors to wander among giant balloons and organ pipes. “It’s an interactive soundscape that changes as you move through the space, and a rare chance to experience the auditorium from the stage itself.”

Another highlight includes drop-in art and printmaking sessions running throughout the day. “These are perfect for people who want to get creative at their own pace, take something home, and chat with others along the way,” added Alice. 

A space for discovery

The essence of Explore@RNCM is discovery, for both the audience and the performers. “We want people to feel they can try something new without any pressure,” Alice explained. “With the workshops, you’re not signing up for a class: you’re just seeing what’s out there and what sparks your interest. That’s what I love about Explore@RNCM. You might come across something completely unexpected that you end up falling in love with.”

One such example is Tocum Capoeira: an interactive demonstration of this Afro-Brazilian cultural art form that combines elements of Martial Arts, Dance, Acrobatics and Music.

“It’s so rhythmic and participatory, very call-and-response. Lots of people have never seen anything like it before. That’s the magic of this event, it gives groups like this a platform and audiences a window into something new.”

Building Manchester’s creative community

The inaugural Explore@RNCM was held as part of RNCM’s 50th anniversary celebrations and was originally conceived as a one-off. “It started as a bit of a birthday party,” Alice said. “But the response was fantastic, so we brought it back. And again last year, people really loved it.”

Each year, the programme is built around a central theme. In 2023, it was The Future is Green, encouraging links with events at the Manchester Museum and community operas. This year, the theme is Dance:Music, exploring the synergy between these two art forms. 

Food, fun, and final details

To keep energy levels high, the RNCM will also be offering festival-style food throughout the day, including hot dogs, churros, sliders, and tubs of ice cream. “The ice cream is always a hit, especially if the sun’s shining!”

Explore@RNCM  takes place on Sunday, the 29th June, from 12 pm to 4 pm at the Royal Northern College of Music, 124 Oxford Road, Manchester. The event is £10 to attend, and all are welcome.

“We really want to connect our building to the rest of the city and show it’s a welcoming space for everyone,” Alice added. “Whether you come to watch, take part, or just soak up the atmosphere – Explore@RNCM  is about community, creativity, and trying something new.”

Tickets for Explore@RNCM

You can get tickets to Explore@RNCM by clicking here