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A new open mic night series has started at a massively underrated Manc bar and music venue

Top, top gaff this.

Danny Jones - 4th April 2025

Are you an inspiring musician or just like hearing the next best thing before they blow up? Well, one of the newest open mic nights in the area has just got underway in Manchester.

It also happens to be taking place at what we think is one of the most underrated small-capacity music venues in the city centre. If you’re interested, keep reading…

Up on Deansgate Mews is full of what social media brands like us to love to call ‘hidden gems’, but in the case of Lions Den, we couldn’t be more sincere about it.

The first event has already been and gone – safe to say it went down a treat:

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If you’ve never been to this unassuming but undeniably brilliant little bar and gig space, it’s known not only for a great drinks lineup at affordable prices and a lovely sun-soaked terrace, but regular live music nights as well.

We’ve had the pleasure of seeing local bands such as Hi Sienna and Balancing Act play there outdoors, whereas inside the venue, you’ll also find a 200-cap room for when those rare rays subside and to cater to the frequent gig-goers year-round.

Manc lads Malcolm got the proceedings underway this month, and the second open mic night is coming up on Tuesday, 8 April.

Kicking off at 7pm, the new weekly open mic night is an opportunity for talented Manchester musicians and those looking to make it some day to take to the stage and share their work with the world.

Well, with us for now, but who knows which future supergroup or solo star might be next?

**Strawberry Lemonade** have gone from playing here to selling out The Deaf Insitute.

More importantly, there’s absolutely no need to book: anyone looking to take part can just turn up and play, so whether you’re hoping to be spotted or just practice playing live, this is a great chance to do so.

Even better still, each act will receive a drink on the house AND professional performance photos to help populate that press shot portfolio and share on your socials.

There’s no entry fee either, whether you’re performing or just a punt, and with great student deals like £3.50 pints and two for £6 spirits, we can see this series taking off.

Catch you in the Den sometime soon.