Manchester arts venue warns of closure without financial support

A community arts centre in Manchester has launched a crowdfunding campaign to stay open, warning that it "won't make it through the winter" without financial support

Resident Advisor reports that Niamos, which hosts jam sessions, hip-hop dance lessons, art classes, choir practice and regular club nights has been running the venue located in Hulme, since 2018. 

Originally known as the Hulme Hippodrome and later the Playhouse Theatre, the venue has been open since 1902 proior to being bought and turned into an arts space in 1986, with funding provided by Manchester City Centre and other groups. 

Niamos director Ronnie Walfall said: "We feel it's important to keep the Nia running so that people in the local area, and indeed those from further afield, have something that they can call their own. 

"This amazing theatre has been in regular use for the last four years, hosting performances and workshops, gigs and dance events. Everyone who comes into contact with the Nia is in awe of the beauty of the building. It has so much potential, to lose this great and historical building would be a tragedy."