Summer is well and truly here, and Manchester is a city that knows how to make the most of it before 2021 is over.
With the government having confirmed that the country’s so-called ‘Freedom Day’ will in fact be happening on 19 July – with rules on the wearing of face masks, social distancing, mass gatherings, and more all set to ease – it’s understandable that many of us have now decided to properly start making our summer plans.
And a bottomless brunch is sure to be on the hit list for plenty of people.
What’s better than a bottomless brunch though? A themed bottomless brunch of course – and luckily, there’s a whole host of them happening in Manchester city centre over the next couple of months.
Each of the immersive brunch events are being hosted by The Brunch Club, who has been working closely with Revolution Parsonage Gardens in Manchester to make each them happen, and those who book will be kept continuously updated with any changes.
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There will be an inclusive menu of grilled brunches, avocado toast and pancakes – with options available for vegetarians, vegans and those following a gluten-free diet – all on offer, and of course with these being bottomless brunches, you can also sip on a tipple or two, with everything from Aperol Spritz and Prosecco, to Bloody Marys, a range of beers and so much more to choose from.
Alternatively, you can skip the booze and just stick to the brunch by itself if you’d prefer.
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From events inspired by singing superstars, to cult-classic films and musicals, we’ve rounded up five of the best themed bottomless brunches taking place in Manchester this summer.
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1. Beyonce Karaoke Brunch
Revolution Parsonage Gardens
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Sunday 26 September
Calling all the single ladies, girls who run the world, or anyone who’s crazy in love – this one’s for you.
An immersive Beyonce-themed karaoke bottomless brunch experience is arriving at Revolution Parsonage Gardens this September, and it’s perfect for a proud member of the ‘BeyHive’, or anyone who fancies belting out Queen B’s greatest hits, all while sipping on a cocktail.
Each 90-minute event is set to be full of “fun and madness”.
While the “singing sessions” are sure to be the main event, you’re also encouraged to come dressed for the part to be in with a chance of bagging some exciting prizes in the costume competition.
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Tickets are available from £35 per head – and you can grab yours here.
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2. Pirates of the Caribbean Brunch
Revolution Parsonage Gardens
Sunday 22 August
Credit: Disney Pictures
A 90-minute bottomless brunch event based on the iconic 00s film franchise Pirates of the Caribbean is sailing into Revolution Parsonage Gardens this August.
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A description for the highly-anticipated event from The Brunch Club website reads: “Calling all pirates, wenches, mermaids and scallywags, if you’ve been waiting for the opportune moment, then this is it.
“Will you be made to walk the plank? Will you be cut in two during our live pirate sword fight? Will you be enchanted away by one of our mermaids? Will you find the hidden treasure?”
The brunch may be the main event, but there’ll also be “a quiz to test your pirate knowledge”, plenty of games, competitions and special prizes up for grabs to keep you on your toes, and while fancy dress is not compulsory, there will also be prizes for the best dressed attendees.
Tickets are available from £35 per head – and you can grab yours here.
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3. Spice Girls Karaoke Brunch
Revolution Parsonage Gardens
Sunday 26 September
Credit: Spiceworld: The Movie
Ready to spice up your life?
A Spice Girls-themed karaoke bottomless brunch is arriving at Revolution Parsonage Gardens this September, and it’s perfect for any 90s pop fan who fancies singing along to the iconic girl band’s greatest hits while sipping on a cocktail.
Each 90-minute event is set to be full of “fun and madness”.
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Once again, while the “singing sessions” are sure to be the main event, you’re also encouraged to come dressed for the part to be in with a chance of bagging some exciting prizes in the costume competition.
Tickets are available from £35 per head – and you can grab yours here.
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4. Dancing Queen! Brunch
Revolution Parsonage Gardens
Sunday 22 August
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Credit: Universal Pictures
The laid-back Greek island lifestyle and Mediterranean sunshine is coming right here to Manchester city centre this August.
This Mamma Mia-themed immersive brunch experience will have you singing, dancing and testing your movie trivia knowledge with a bunch of themed quizzes in the aim of trying to win some of the exciting prizes up for grabs.
There’ll also be a costume competition, all of the greatest Mamma Mia tunes blasting out, and a few sing-alongs accompanied by “a great band” thrown in there too for good measure.
Tickets are available from £35 per head – and you can grab yours here.
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5. Musicals Bingo Manchester! Grease
Revolution Parsonage Gardens
Sunday 8 August
Credit: Paramount Pictures
Grease is always near the top of the list when reeling off the most beloved musicals.
First released as a musical 1971 before going on to become a critical and commercial success in the form of a smash-hit film starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John in 1978, Grease depicts the lives of greaser Danny Zuko and Australian transfer student Sandy Olsson who develop an attraction for each other.
It developed a cult following of fans in the process – but how well do you reckon you know the story and the songs?
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Now’s your chance to put your knowledge to the test at this ‘musicals bingo’ bottomless brunch.
Tickets are available from £35 per head – and you can grab yours here.
What's On
Review | The Karate Kid at Palace Theatre and Opera House, Manchester – very much wax ON
Lonnie Bowes
The theatrical version of The Karate Kid has arrived at the Palace Theatre and Opera House, bringing a well-known story of discipline, resilience and mentorship to a live audience.
Best known for its iconic cinematic legacy, The Karate Kid translates surprisingly well to the stage. It leans less on spectacle and more on character, movement and emotional growth.
At the production’s heart, the story still revolves around a young outsider trying to find confidence and belonging in an unfamiliar environment, guided by an unexpected mentor.
The narrative follows Daniel, played by Gino Ochello, marking his first professional stage debut, as he struggles to adjust to a new life, facing intimidation and self-doubt before encountering the legendary Mr Miyagi, played by Adrian Pang.
What unfolds is more than just a story of learning karate; it becomes a study of patience, balance and inner strength for Daniel. The central relationship between student and teacher remains the production’s strongest theme, grounding the story in warmth and sincerity.
The bond between student and Sensei is clear to see throughout. Focusing more on the movement side of things, the musical definitely has its fair share of action; the production shines with storytelling through choreography.
The fight sequences are carefully staged. The whole production walks a balanced line between movement and tension that feels immediate without losing theatrical elements.
These scenes are not about aggression alone but about control, reflecting the philosophy at the core of the story: balance. If you’ve seen the movies or the likes of Cobra Kai, you’ll know the vibes.
The cast works cohesively to maintain this balance. Ochello playing Daniel captures a mix of genuine vulnerability and determination as he attempts to settle into his new life in California, a million miles from the streets of Jersey he once knew.
While Adrian Pang portrays Mr Miyagi does this with a quiet authority. Their dynamic evolves on stage flawlessly, allowing the audience to invest in their journey rather than simply anticipating the next fight.
Visually, the production makes effective use of staging and design. The set shifts fluidly between locations, using lighting and more than a few well-timed transitions to keep the pace moving.
Subtle changes in atmosphere mirror the cast’s internal world, moving from insecurity and isolation to confidence and connection as the story progresses. The music throughout further supports this, blending nostalgia from the old flicks we all knew and love, with a new contemporary stage feel.
As the story builds toward its familiar ending, the focus remains less on winning and more on personal growth. The final moments emphasise discipline, self-belief and restraint rather than triumph alone.
A well-deserved standing ovation. (Credit: The Manc)
Reinforcing why the story has endured across generations and how the themes explored remain powerful pillars of life in today’s world.
Ultimately, The Karate Kid on stage at the Palace Theatre succeeds not by trying to replicate the film exactly, but by reinterpreting its themes for a live audience. It’s a production that leans into character, movement, friendship and emotional resilience.
It reminds viewers that its real power lies not in the fights, although sometimes necessary as a last resort, but in what they represent on the inside. We had a much deeper experience than we expected, and loved pretty much every minute of it.
Manchester City to open pop-up pub in honour of John Stones and Bernardo Silva
Danny Jones
Manchester City are setting up a special pop-up to celebrate John Stones and Bernardo Silva as they prepare to leave at the end of this season.
Having spent nearly two full decades at the Etihad Stadium between them, Stones and Silva will be toasting their departure in true Northern fashion: with their very own Man City pub of the same name.
Come on, you have to admit it: ‘The Stones and Silva’ has a nice ring to it.
Opening for just a few days later this month, before the conclusion of the 2025/26 Premier League campaign and their final appearances in City colours, this is your time to cheers their careers.
Pouring pints from Thursday, 21 May until the end, Cityzens are being encouraged to come along and raise a glass to two of their team’s most successful stars.
Taking over the legendary Star and Garter on Fairfield Street in Manchester city centre, as per an official press release from the club, “The Stones & Silva will feature themed décor inspired by the pair’s unforgettable moments in sky blue.”
As arguably two of the most important players during the Manc side’s most prolific period for winning silverware, it feels only fitting that Blues give them a proper send-off.
Entry will be available on a first-come, first-served basis throughout the event, and you can expect plenty of supporters to come through the doors.
The chosen picture for the pub’s hanging inn sign is inspired by the iconic snap of the Gallagher brothers back at the start of the Oasis mania.
MCFC’s The Stones and Silva pop-up pub will open at the following times:
Thursday, 21 May: 4pm-11pm
Friday, 22 May: 4pm-11pm
Saturday, 23 May: 12pm-11pm
Sunday, 24 May: 12pm-8pm
Better still, in collaboration with official partners Asahi, the first 100 fans through the doors each day will be able to get their hands on a FREE beer. Be rude not to at least try and turn up early…
Elsewhere at the club, the drinks have already been flowing in and around Etihad Campus, as Man City Women finally lifted another league title. See some of the party scenes down below.
Emily Sergeant -
9th July 2021 
