[Updated 22/04/2026] It’s a bumper weekend for the North West, from fifth-placed Liverpool at Anfield and a sold-out Yungblud at the AO Arena to the last chance to catch Matilda the Musical at the Palace Theatre. Whether you’re looking for live music, world-class sport, theatre or something to watch on the sofa on Sunday, we’ve got the full rundown right here.
Theatre
Matilda the Musical: LAST WEEKEND
Thursday 24 & Friday 25 April (final performances) · Palace Theatre, Manchester
Your absolute last chance to catch the RSC’s multi-award-winning production of Roald Dahl’s beloved classic in Manchester. Winner of over 100 global awards including 24 for Best Musical, this UK tour has been wowing audiences since its opening night in March, and after Saturday 25 April, it moves on. With Tim Minchin’s genius score, dazzling special effects and a spellbinding cast led by a magnificent Miss Trunchbull, it’s the show of the season. If you haven’t booked yet, check for returns urgently. Last-night energy in this building will be something special. Age guidance 6+.
Running time is 2 hrs 35 mins including interval. The Palace Theatre is right in the heart of Manchester’s theatre district on Oxford Street — easy by Metrolink or the Mancunian Way.
🔗 atgtickets.com/shows/matilda-the-musical/palace-theatre-manchester/
Conteh: Royal Court Theatre, Liverpool
24–26 April (continuing run to 9 May) · Royal Court Theatre, Liverpool
Aron Julius’ acclaimed drama tells the story of Kirkby boxer John Conteh, who won gold at the Commonwealth Games at 19 and became light heavyweight champion of the world just five years later. A Liverpool sporting hero brought brilliantly to life on his home city’s stage — this is unmissable for boxing fans and theatre lovers alike. Runs until 9 May so you have time to plan, but weekends fill up fast.
Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra: Prokofiev & Tchaikovsky
Sunday 26 April · 14:00 · Liverpool Philharmonic Hall
Conductor Domingo Hindoyan reunites with piano sensation Alim Beisembayev for Prokofiev’s Second Piano Concerto. It is a thundering, virtuosic masterwork, followed by Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5, one of the great orchestral warhorses. A Sunday afternoon of glorious classical music in one of the finest concert halls in the country. Perfect for a cultural day out in Liverpool.
🔗 liverpoolphil.com/current-events/
Concerts & Live Music
Yungblud: AO Arena Manchester
Saturday 25 April · 18:00 · AO Arena, Manchester
Doncaster’s biggest export brings his electric live show back to Manchester for a massive headline date at the AO Arena. The singer, who has racked up two UK number one albums and six billion Spotify streams, is a force of nature on stage. Expect full crowd participation, raw energy and an arena rocking from start to finish. A Sunday Times bestselling author and champion for youth culture, Yungblud shows are more than just a gig. They’re a communal experience.
Liverpool Acoustic: Oh Brother, Where Art Thou?
Saturday 25 April · Various times · Liverpool Philharmonic Hall (Music Room)
The Jesse Janes return to the intimate Music Room at the Phil for their show celebrating the iconic Coen Brothers soundtrack. Americana, folk and bluegrass at its finest in a gorgeous setting. A lovely alternative to the bigger shows if you fancy something more intimate this Saturday.
🔗 liverpoolphil.com/current-events/
Events & Days Out
Toy Bank Weekend: Gulliver’s World, Warrington
Saturday 25 – Sunday 26 April · Gulliver’s World, Warrington
A brilliant family weekend at Gulliver’s World, one of the North West’s best-loved theme parks for younger children. The Toy Bank Weekend is a special charitable event as well as a wonderful day out, so you can enjoy the rides and attractions while doing a bit of good. Great for under-10s and their parents looking for a memorable weekend outing. Gulliver’s World is just off Junction 9 of the M62 and is very easy to reach from Liverpool, Manchester and Wigan.
Pirate Treasure Hunt: Manchester Sea Life, The Trafford Centre
All weekend (continuing to 4 May) · Manchester Sea Life, The Trafford Centre
The kids will love hunting for pirate treasure through Manchester Sea Life’s amazing underwater world this weekend. The interactive trail runs through the spring holidays and is a wonderful way to keep younger family members entertained while sneaking in a little ocean education. Book ahead online for better value.
🔗 visitsealife.com/manchester/
The Loneliest Whale: HOME Arts Centre, Manchester
Saturday 25 April · HOME Arts Centre, Manchester
HOME screens The Loneliest Whale, a documentary following the search for the legendary 52 Hz whale, the one creature whose call is pitched so high that no other whale can hear it. A moving, beautifully shot film for anyone who loves the natural world. HOME remains one of Manchester’s most essential cultural venues and always programmes with real intelligence.
TV Highlights
Grace: Series 6
Sunday nights, ongoing · ITV1 / ITVX
John Simm is back as Detective Superintendent Roy Grace alongside co-stars Richie Campbell and Zoë Tapper for four brand new episodes. Based on Peter James’ beloved novels, Grace continues to be one of ITV’s most reliable Sunday night pleasures; atmospheric Brighton-set crime drama with real craft and character. Catch up on ITVX if you’ve missed any.
Taskmaster: new series
Thursday nights, ongoing — catch up this weekend · Channel 4 / All 4
Greg Davies and Alex Horne are back with another glorious round of silly tasks. This series features Amy Gledhill, Armando Iannucci, Joanna Page, Joel Dommett and Kumail Nanjiani. If you haven’t been watching, this weekend is the perfect time to binge what you’ve missed on All 4. Absolutely guaranteed to make you laugh.
The Neighbourhood: ITV1
Sunday 26 April · ITV1
ITV’s new reality series The Neighbourhood airs this Sunday. A fresh format exploring the dynamics of suburban community life. A perfect companion piece to Grace if you’re settling in for an ITV Sunday evening.
All event details correct at time of publication. Always check with venues directly before travelling, as times and availability can change.
