Celebrated local artist Michael J. Browne (MJB) has finally assembled his latest exhibition, and it’s now on display for free right in the middle of Manchester.
The Moss Side native has completed a number of eye-catching works over the past year or so, which many of you may have noticed steadily cropping up along Deansgate.
Famed for working with the likes of Eric Cantona and the National Football Museum, as well as a viral piece picturing President Donald Trump pride of place in the city centre, he’s been making waves from a particular corner over the past few months.
That piece, along with multiple follow-ups in the collection, can be viewed in the flesh at no cost – and trust us, they’re worth examining up close and personal…
Entitled, ‘A Portrait of Power’, the new exhibit by Michael J. Browne is uneniably one of his most provocative yet, spotlighting figures like Trump, notable British politicians, the Royal Family and more in a big shop window over at Great Northern Warehouse.
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Featuring everything from football-themed nods to the likes of Maradona and Cristiano Ronaldo, to his monumental ‘Sovereign Servant’ oil painting, which sees recognisable Royals, Conservatives and other famous faces aboard HMS Victory in front of the Houses of Parliament, the intricacy is staggering.
You only have to glimpse one of these point-blank to see the sheer level of detail; collectively, the art amounts to thousands of hours of effort and weeks spent covering every inch of the large canvases.
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Exhibiting a bold fusion of historical symbolism with contemporary commentary, drawing from key cultural characters that make up the current zeitgeist, Browne is all about capturing the shifting face of ‘British identity’, as ever amorphous and transient as it may be.
Put simply, this installation is “a portrait of power, legacy, and national reflection.”
Known for his incredibly precise and almost microscopic technique, MJB‘s work has been showcased all over the world, including at the National Portrait Gallery, and never fails to stir up a conversation.
The exhibition will be held for a limited time at his current venue within units 291-293 at Great Northern.
Situated right on the corner of the main Deansgate strip and the adjoining Great Bridgewater Street, it’s hard to miss once you’ve seen it.
Private viewings are also available by appointment for the likes of MPs, political party members and accredited media, as well as interested members of the public.
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.”
Danny Jones -
9th October 2025 
