HOME

HOME is an arts centre in Manchester that brings together film, theatre and visual art under one roof. It stands on First Street in the city’s growing creative quarter, designed by the Dutch firm Mecanoo Architects. The complex includes two theatres, five cinema screens, gallery space, a café bar and a restaurant. The 500-seat theatre hosts drama and dance while the smaller studio space offers flexible performances. Five cinemas show a wide range of films, from new releases to classics and specialised programmes. The centre was created by merging Cornerhouse and the Library Theatre Company, organisations with long histories in Manchester. Funding came from Manchester City Council, the Garfield Weston Foundation and Arts Council England, with Dave Moutrey leading the project. Sarah Perks directs visual arts, Jason Wood oversees film and Walter Meierjohann leads theatre programming. HOME also works with prominent figures such as Danny Boyle, Meera Syal and Jackie Kay as patrons. Visitors find a lively programme of over 10,000 events each year. There are 6,500 cinema screenings, 350 theatre performances and 20 exhibitions of contemporary art. The centre supports education and talent development with 3,500 sessions for participants. Its café bar and restaurant provide places to meet and relax. HOME also promotes environmental sustainability and has won awards for its efforts.