A new series of matchmaking events for singles who have “dating app fatigue” is coming to Manchester next month.
Started by as a way for people to form new relationships in a more organic setting, Bored of Dating Apps (BODA) is a series of in-person events that focus on the joy of community, put mental health at the heart, and create an environment where friendship is considered to be just as important as romance.
Previous BODA events have been going down a storm over in Liverpool, and so, very soon, Manchester is set to host its own series.
Appealing to all genders and ranging from people in their 20s and 30s to their 40s, the BODA team explains that its past events have generally seen an equal split of males and females – with around 90% of attendees rocking up solo to “embrace the experience to the full extent”.
The series of events will include dumpling making masterclasses, pasta workshops, cheese and wine supper clubs, hikes, quizzes, yoga socials, an autumnal singles weekend retreat.
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But first on the lineup is the Manchester launch event at GRUB – a ‘Sip & Paint’ evening.
Hosted by local artist Libby Ayres, Sip & Paint nights are a fun way to learn to paint in a relaxed, fun, and sociable environment.
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During this unique session that’s suitable for people of all abilities and set to be “full of singles”, Libby will guide you through processes and techniques for using acrylic paints to create a beautiful canvas to take home at the end of the night.
“There is going to be a rebellion against dating apps and doing everything online,” explained Jessica Evans – founder of BODA.
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“People don’t want to feel constrained to just social media, dating apps, and WhatsApp anymore.”
Bored of Dating Apps (BODA) is a series of in-person events where friendship is considered just as important as romance / Credit: BODA
To sum it all up in a nutshell, whether you meet someone or not, each of the Manchester BODA events are varied, full of “welcoming and genuine” people, and promising to be “a good night no matter what happens”.
Tickets will set you back £35 and include a complimentary drink, all necessary art equipment, your artwork to take home, and of course, a “wonderful” social evening with BODA.
Beloved play The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time set to return to the stage in Manchester
Emily Sergeant
One of the most beloved stage plays of the 21st Century is returning to Manchester.
Based on the celebrated 2003 novel of the same name that captivated readers worldwide, and inspired a groundbreaking National Theatre production, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is returning to one of Manchester‘s most iconic stages in early 2027 as part of a major UK tour.
The new play is adapted from Mark Haddon’s multi-million-selling novel by acclaimed Playwright Simon Stephens, and will be directed by Ned Bennett.
Taking over the Manchester Opera House stage in March 2027, critics have described the production as ‘inventive, gripping, and moving’.
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time combines the intrigue of a whodunnit with a powerful coming-of-age story to create an ‘unforgettable’ theatrical event.
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If you’re not familiar with the plot, the play tells the story of Christopher Boone – a gifted child with a brilliant mind for numbers, but unsettled by the unpredictability of people and everyday life.
When a neighbour’s dog is killed, he finds himself under suspicion, but determined to prove his innocence, Christopher becomes both detective and suspect, drawn into a mystery that grows darker and more complex with every clue he uncovers.
What begins as the search for a culprit soon reveals secrets closer to home, ultimately forcing him to confront truths that will test his courage, his family, and his understanding of trust, independence, and the wider world.
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is coming to Manchester / Credit: Supplied
“The journey of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time has been an extraordinary adventure,” commented Playwright Simon Stephens, as the new adaptation was announced this week.
“It has taken me all over the world. From church halls to enormous auditoria, and from school drama clubs to Wembley Way.
“I am thrilled that Christopher Boone is about to head out again through the United Kingdom. He is a boy defined by his determination and his bravery. This feels like a time when those characteristics are more urgently needed than ever.”
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is coming to Manchester Opera House as part of its UK tour from Tuesday 2 – Saturday 6 March 2027, and tickets go on general sale next Friday (21 November) at 10am.
Lightwaves returns to Salford Quays next month with mesmerising FREE outdoor light trail
Emily Sergeant
One of the North West’s most mesmerising light art festivals is returning to Salford once again this festive season.
After having successfully lit up MediaCity like never before in recent years, and going on to become an undeniable winter season highlight in Greater Manchester, Lightwaves Salford is set to return for another year early next month, and will be joining the growing list of light trails already in place across the region and beyond.
Presented by Quays Culture, the popular festival is returning for its twelfth year, and there’ll be 12 illuminated artworks along a 1.5km fully-accessible trail around MediaCity and Salford Quays.
The mesmerising immersive experience will include installations of different scale, all making use of light, sound, and technology in innovative ways.
The themes of the artworks vary from celebrating the nostalgia of a seaside arcade, to highlighting climate change and our connection to the natural world all set to represented, aiming to offer people a sense of optimism and togetherness.
Organisers are calling this year’s festival their ‘most interactive yet’.
“This year the focus is on artworks that visitors can engage with on a more human scale,” explained Rachel Candler from Quays Culture, “so we’re looking forward to seeing playful moments and even some dancing.
Lightwaves returns to Salford Quays next month with a mesmerising FREE outdoor light trail / Credit: Dave Sloan | Liz West
“Year on year, Lightwaves delights audiences of all ages, and we’re sure that 2025 will be no exception.
“For many of our visitors, Lightwaves Salford marks the start of the festive period, getting together with friends or family for a dazzling evening of light art as we head into the winter months.”
Emily Sergeant -
13th September 2022 
