Open Works Festival presents Scratch Night 2.

Join us for an evening of bold new theatre and fresh creative voices showcasing an exciting mix of artists sharing extracts of brand-new work. From powerful drama and inventive storytelling to a new musical and surprising perspectives, expect an evening packed with imagination, energy and discovery.

Tiny Acts: Jessica Millward

Naomi’s under investigation at her front of house job after accidentally letting a climate protestor into a renowned theatre. Did Naomi notice anything, or was it all just a stupid mistake? Tiny Acts is inspired by true and fictional stories of hope during a time where things feel bleak

A Family Business: Callum Berridge

Meet Wilko, the beloved high street retailer that collapsed after nearly a century. Built from verbatim testimony and scripted scenes, it asks what happens when “we’re all one big family” meets corporate failure, lost pensions, thousands of redundancies - and the people left to pick up the pieces.

The Summer of Blooming Dahlias: Victoria Marrett

Rebekah, Grace, and Alisha are sisters in all but blood, and the time for their annual reunion has arrived! But, as they talk and reminisce, unexpected challenges arise: their friendship is tested, and many truths are revealed. Experience this authentically layered production - a celebration of Black beauty, joy, and sisterhood!

Fairy Grandmother: Jas Nisic

A musical about a shy girl growing up on a Manchester council estate whose life is transformed by Sue, a bold, stubborn next-door-neighbour-but-one who becomes her unofficial grandmother and encourages her to find her voice.

Part of Open Works Festival