Three Minute Theatre

Three Minute Theatre, housed on the ground floor of Afflecks Palace, prides itself on being 'the only purpose-built boutique theatre' in Manchester. The company was founded in 2011 by co-owners Gina and John, after they created a three minute long musical aimed at primary school children, and continued the niche theme by hosting three minute long plays. The space is used by touring productions (with lots lasting more than three minutes!) and hosts a range of events including poetry slams, stand up comedy and film screenings. 3MT, as it's also known, also runs creative courses and acting classes, and is the meeting place for the Manchester Shakespeare Company. The independent theatre champions originality, experimentation and creativity, and encourages anyone to get involved — it's the perfect venue for a cheap, last minute evening out. They also recently launched an online radio station for budding presenters and voice actors, and they're also partnered with the Square Circle Community Theatre Company. [Charlotte Davies]