Ramona and The Firehouse in Ancoats have launched a huge new live entertainment programme to champion and support independent musicians and artists in Manchester.
The team have also launched their own in-house radio station, alongside five nights of entertainment.
The award-winning former MOT station and warehouse depot, famed for their Detroit pizzas, margaritas, Firehouse Kitchen, guest DJ sets, runway parties and more, are bringing free live performances and DJ broadcasts to Manchester from Wednesday – Sunday, with a season of entertainment called the Night Village.
One of the most exciting new additions is Ramona Radio – a weekly live radio show and party with guest DJs, servers and the crowd going ‘On Air’ and broadcast every Wednesday – live from the Tipi to the world.
House specialist Tristan Da Cunha (Back 2 Basics, Dungeon Meat) was first up to go ‘On Air’ last Wednesday. The start of weekly ‘On Air’ DJ sets, hosted by Ramona and The Firehouse’s music curator Jonjo, the sets will all be streamed live, supported with a new weekly podcast and accompanied by £5 margaritas all night.
On Thursdays, Ramona’s growing live session ‘Campfire Live’ will offer free live performances all week, every Thursday. The line-up includes the best local talent and bands from across the globe as the Ramona team expand the scope, breadth and ambition of their live entertainment plans.
Ramona’s cosy campfire vibes provide the perfect setting for the party, and guests can enjoy Detroit-style pizza and a collection of margaritas plus other inventive dishes like their truffle tots, Detroit hot wings and ultra cheesy garlic bread.
Next door at Ramona’s sister bar restaurant, The Firehouse’s runway parties continue every Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
On the Runway the Firehouse dance crews are the stars of the show from garage two step superstars, Dance Regular, to the vogue inspired flamboyance of House of Ghetto.
Late night parties and music lovers can flit between the two venues for a free-flowing live music, art and performance experience.
“We’ve been curating independent UK-based electronic, jazz and world music since we opened the doors,” said Jonjo, head of music and entertainment at Ramona and the Firehouse.
“Moving into 2022 we’re ready to take things up a notch with our first bands from the continent, an upgraded sound system and the best up and coming acts and labels every week.
“And all for free – surely the city’s best kept secret.”
Find out what’s on in the coming weeks here.