Lions Den relaunch open mic night at Great Northern Warehouse to showcase Manchester’s amazing local talent

Nestled on Manchester’s hidden street, Deansgate Mews, the cosy independent bar and performance space hosts a variety of weekly shows and live performances, including the famed open mic night every Wednesday.

In collaboration with budding musicians Laura Farrow and Tyler Bolton, who are familiar with gigging in and around Manchester, the event supports grass-roots music and provides upcoming musicians with an ‘unopposed’ opportunity to hit the stage.

The format couldn’t be easier – artists interested in participating simply arrive at Lions Den at 18:30 and book a slot with Laura or Tyler, before getting the chance to perform three songs in front of the audience which is largely made up of fellow musicians and performers.

Do why not dust off your guitar and show the city what you can do?

Dave Foran, owner of Lions Den, who has been putting on gigs / events for over 20 years, said: “Lions Den is devoted to supporting grass-roots music and local talent – which Manchester is bursting with.

“We’re operate a NO ‘pay-to-play’ policy and offer musicians the opportunity to face any fears and gain experience performing on stage.

“It’s increasingly difficult to find opportunities to perform in front of an audience.

“Lions Den has managed to carve out a space where up-and-coming musicians feel comfortable to grow as artists.”

Popular amongst students and up-and-coming musicians, the open mic night offers those who want to try their hand at performing, perhaps for the first time, an opportunity to build confidence and meet like-minded people who share a passion for live music.

From soft acoustic ballads to indie/rock ‘n roll music or even comedy and spoken words – the open mic night at Lions Den welcomes a range of genres and performers to take centre stage.

Performers are provided with a free drink, to help with any pre-performance nerves, and a chance to perform with Lions Den’s in house drummer and record live.

Open mic kicks off at 19:00 every Wednesday night until late – simply show up to perform or enjoy an evening of live music.

Mark Schofield, Centre Director of Great Northern Warehouse, said: “Lions Den embodies Manchester’s creative and supportive spirit.

“We’re certain that we’ll see many young musicians continue on to bigger things.”