John McGrath
“ It is about providing practical and economic support to emerging musicians in the city .”
acoustic wall can enable two shows to be staged simultaneously in that space . A moveable acoustic wall in the proscenium arch separating the Warehouse from the Auditorium means that the venue could host three shows at the same time , while other activity was staged in open spaces around the building and alongside the River Irwell .
Says McGrath , “ We have a strong relationship with the local council and a history of doing outdoor shows , because we do MIF events in Festival Square . A lot of that ’ s about supporting new talent and showcasing it . We ’ ll be continuing to do that in the public spaces around Factory International , working very carefully with the council around licencing to allow for that .
“ Our architect is a bit obsessed with the idea of multiple performances taking place simultaneously in the building , she keeps sending us drawings of how you could have different shows in different parts of the building at the same time . Because the acoustic doors are such high spec , it also means you could take out a show in one space while you have a performance happening in the other .
“ It ’ s been a complicated building to build but when you ’ re actually in it , it appears simple . It ’ s a big space with two walls , and all the foyer spaces are on the ground floor underneath . It ’ s a very functional venue for artists and promoters .”
Having set up MIF Sounds , a programme designed to support Manchester-based music creatives during the pandemic , McGrath says the initiative is to be rebranded Future Sounds and will take place under the venue ’ s roof .
“ It is about providing practical and economic support to emerging musicians in the city , whether it is helping them with the cost of recording or putting on gigs , so that they can make music . That ’ s very much in line with the history and spirit of Factory Records . Investing in up-and-coming talent , even in a big venue like , is a big part of our role .”
Another key initiative to be accommodated at the venue is Factory Academy , a training scheme designed to help the next generation of technicians , producers and arts professionals .
McGrath says that helping to support freelancers in the events industry is a key focus : “ We are creating a new freelancer contract and want to give freelancers access to training and career development opportunities . We are also looking at opportunities to bring in new talent and create a more diverse workforce . It is all about helping to support the next generation of creatives and workers .”
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