New York style piano and cabaret bar coming to hidden Manchester alley

A new piano and cabaret bar is coming to the King Street area of Manchester this summer.

Called Sonata Piano & Cabaret Lounge, the new venue is inspired by the cabaret clubs of New York and Berlin.

Tucked away on St Ann’s Alley, opposite Mr Thomas’s Chop House, Sonata will be entered through a ‘speakeasy’-style entrance.

Guests will descend the stairs and discover a classic venue with a contemporary twist, a state-of-the-art sound system and a stage complete with baby grand piano.

It’s quite a transformation from its previous incarnation – the basement storeroom of the former Boots on King Street.

The programme will offer something for everyone, say owners, showcasing singers, pianists and cabaret artists from across the UK and beyond.

Guests will experience everything from pop standards to Broadway ballads, from jazz classics to quirky cabaret.

The venue promises a warm Manchester welcome, with the comfort and convenience of full table service.

Sonata will be open seven nights a week until the early hours, for drinks before or after dinner or the theatre.

For those who fancy a bite while they enjoy the evening’s entertainment, a tempting selection of cheese and charcuterie will be on offer.

The independent venue is founded by Dale Bassett, a trained singer and cabaret artist who left performing for a career in education and business.

Reflecting during the pandemic, Dale decided to return to his musical and theatrical roots.

Sonata is the realisation of his dream of a venue inspired by the London cabaret scene, where he performed before moving to Manchester a decade ago.

“I am so excited to be creating a unique addition to Manchester’s nightlife and legendary music scene, and in a completely new and custom-designed venue,” said Dale.

“Sonata is more than just a bar – it’s a special place to relax and feel at home while you enjoy the piano and song that take centre-stage.

“Whether you discover something new or enjoy an old favourite, I will be hand-picking our performers to make sure you have a memorable night.

“Sonata has been my lifelong dream, and to bring it to life in the city I love is such a privilege.

“I can’t wait to share my passion and our fantastically talented artists with our guests.”

Opening dates and the first acts to perform will be confirmed in the coming weeks.