A trip to see ‘Liberation’ at Manchester’s Royal Exchange

This summer, 180 students from across Greater Manchester experienced a powerful theatrical landmark, Liberation at the Royal Exchange Theatre.

For many, it was their first-ever visit to a theatre, and the Royal Exchange’s unique in-the-round staging made an immediate impression. One student shared:

‘I was excited. I’d never been to the Royal Exchange Theatre before, and the stage being in the middle was really cool.’

Liberation, Royal Exchange Theatre, Manchester. Image credit: Isha Shah Photography

A Play That Sparked Conversations

Liberation, Royal Exchange Theatre, Manchester. Image credit: Isha Shah Photography

Inspired by the real events of the 1945 Pan-African Congress held in Manchester, Liberation tells the story of activists who gathered to demand independence and equality across Africa and the Caribbean. The production, filled with live music, rich costume, and bold storytelling, left students moved, energised, and full of questions.

‘I found the show really emotional and powerful. Some parts were hard-hitting and made me really think about how time has moved… but still not enough.’

‘We ended up discussing how Black women are often judged or misunderstood, the show highlighted it really well.’

Liberation, Royal Exchange Theatre, Manchester. Image credit: Isha Shah Photography

Teachers Saw Real Impact

Staff accompanying the visit spoke of the lasting educational value of the experience:

‘Our Year 9 students enjoyed an inspiring trip… the play was thought-provoking, emotionally charged, and brilliantly performed. It sparked meaningful conversations afterwards.’

Another teacher, who brought a Year 10 group, reflected:

‘They loved the acting, costumes, set, lights and sound. I wanted them to understand theatre in the round and how to analyse a piece of theatre. They got that and more.’

Beyond Entertainment

Many young people spoke about how the play helped them connect history to the present:

‘You learnt stuff they don’t really teach in schools, it should be talked about more.’

‘Some of us talked about how hard it can be to speak up or stand out, especially in school or at home.’

One student said simply:

‘It felt like we were about to be part of something important, not just watching a regular play.’

The theatre works! grant to the Royal Exchange Theatre, Manchester removed financial and logistical barriers so more young people could access live performance.

Inspired? Apply for support from theatre works! for your next school trip

Schools can find out more and apply here.