LOCAL comedian Jason Manford is to kick off the fast approaching festive season and push the button at this year’s light switch-on party.
"No one does Christmas like Manchester and our lights switch-on party is the envy of the UK."
On Friday 7 November, the biggest Christmas party in the North West (FREE, too) will begin at Albert Square with an evening of high-energy entertainment including a ten minute firework finale.
Key 103 presenters Mike and Chelsea are to host the live show, with performances expected from Britain's Got Talent winners Collabro and X-Factor alumni, singer Shayne Ward, who will be sharing the stage with new girl band, The Piccadillys.
Actor Warwick Davis will also appear ahead of his appearance in the Opera House’s production of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs starting on 5 December – starring alongside Elvis' former wife Priscilla Presley.
Warwick in Seven Dwarfs (Credit Simon Annand)
The family friendly switch-on show will also see appearances from the cast of Shrek: The Musical, CBBC favourites Hacker and Dodge, and winners of The Printworks Street Dance competitions, Superkidz from Stretford, who will wow the crowds with their winning choreography.
In partnership with Key 103 the switch-on show will set the festive tone for six weeks of Christmas events in the city centre, including the Manchester Christmas Markets.
Cllr Pat Karney, Manchester’s Christmas spokesperson, said: “No one does Christmas like Manchester and our lights switch-on party is the envy of the UK. For generations of Mancunians it is the official start of the countdown to Christmas – but this is only the start of more than six weeks of festive celebrations across the city.”
Manchester's Christmas Markets
Cllr Rosa Battle, Manchester City Council’s executive member for culture and leisure, said: “This show is for everyone and I love to see whole families turn up to enjoy the entertainment. We think this is the most accessible, family-friendly Christmas Lights switch-on event we’ve ever put on and we look forward to seeing you there.”
There’s no need for tickets, it’s free. Simply wrap up warm, grab your family and friends and get ready to have some fun on Friday 7 November from 7.30pm at Albert Square, Manchester.
