A new ‘piano bar and cabaret lounge’ is coming to the city centre.
The Sonata Piano Bar & Cabaret Lounge will be taking up the basement storeroom of the former Boots chemist on King Street.
The entrance will be a hidden ‘speakeasy’ style doorway to the venue below, which is set to be open seven days a week into the early hours.
According to its owners, it aims to emulate the New York and Berlin cabaret clubs of old, but with the decor given a contemporary twist.
Inside, there will be a stage, a state-of-the-art sound system and a baby grand piano, with full table service.
Music-wise, it’ll feature singers, musicians and cabaret artists from ‘across the UK and beyond’, with the entertainment policy ranging from ‘pop standards to Broadway ballads, from jazz classics to quirky cabaret’.
Access to the late-night spot will be gained from St. Ann’s Alley, opposite Mr Thomas’s Chop House.
The independent venue is being launched by Dale Bassett, a trained singer and cabaret artist himself, and veteran of the London cabaret scene.
“I am so excited to be creating a unique addition to Manchester’s nightlife and legendary music scene, and in a completely new and custom-designed venue,” he said.
“Sonata is more than just a bar – it’s a special place to relax and feel at home while you enjoy the piano and song that take centre-stage. Whether you discover something new or enjoy an old favourite, I will be hand-picking our performers to make sure you have a memorable night.
“Sonata has been my lifelong dream, and to bring it to life in the city I love is such a privilege. I can’t wait to share my passion and our fantastically talented artists with our guests.”
The venue is set to open in the summer, with a full program of events arriving in the coming weeks.
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