53two
Nominee Profile
Location: Manchester
53two is an arts charity based in Manchester, committed to igniting social change by creating opportunities for underserved and disabled creatives. We champion accessibility, inclusivity, and visibility across the arts, offering subsidised classes, workshops, and services for creatives of all backgrounds across Greater Manchester.
Since 2016, we’ve managed three venues, each purposefully designed to be fully accessible. In 2021, we signed a 15-year lease on two 150-year-old railway arches in the city centre. These arches are being carefully restored to create a landmark venue: phase one includes a café/bar and arts hub, while phase two will open a 150-seat, fully accessible theatre. From stage to staff facilities, the entire space is designed with access in mind.
Though only recently a registered charity, our impact has been significant. We’ve built a national network of disabled creatives and helped shift the conversation around disability in the arts. When we began, no independent theatre stages in Manchester were accessible to wheelchair users. Now, through advocacy and example, we’ve changed that. In 2018, we were proud to be named Best Small Venue at the Northern Soul Awards.
Our first venue quickly became a vital hub for disabled creatives. We modified the space with features like a lowered stage and ramp access, enabling wheelchair users not just to attend events, but to perform. For many, this visibility led to new recognition and professional opportunities.
We champion access on all fronts: BSL interpretation is standard across all shows, and we advocate for captioning wherever possible. We’ve welcomed companies such as Taking Flight Theatre, and regularly host sessions for groups including the Disabled Artists Networking Community and Bee Vocal, a choir supporting mental health.
At 53two, we believe the arts are for everyone.
Since 2016, we’ve managed three venues, each purposefully designed to be fully accessible. In 2021, we signed a 15-year lease on two 150-year-old railway arches in the city centre. These arches are being carefully restored to create a landmark venue: phase one includes a café/bar and arts hub, while phase two will open a 150-seat, fully accessible theatre. From stage to staff facilities, the entire space is designed with access in mind.
Though only recently a registered charity, our impact has been significant. We’ve built a national network of disabled creatives and helped shift the conversation around disability in the arts. When we began, no independent theatre stages in Manchester were accessible to wheelchair users. Now, through advocacy and example, we’ve changed that. In 2018, we were proud to be named Best Small Venue at the Northern Soul Awards.
Our first venue quickly became a vital hub for disabled creatives. We modified the space with features like a lowered stage and ramp access, enabling wheelchair users not just to attend events, but to perform. For many, this visibility led to new recognition and professional opportunities.
We champion access on all fronts: BSL interpretation is standard across all shows, and we advocate for captioning wherever possible. We’ve welcomed companies such as Taking Flight Theatre, and regularly host sessions for groups including the Disabled Artists Networking Community and Bee Vocal, a choir supporting mental health.
At 53two, we believe the arts are for everyone.