REFRACTIONS



UK Tour
Spring 2025

 
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Sound refracts across the ages.

Enter a musical time warp as electronic musician Clark and Manchester Collective – “the UK’s most innovative classical ensemble” (The Times) – team up for an explosive collaboration.

Clark’s career spans a quarter of a century, encompassing the full spectrum of electronic – from hard-hitting techno to soft ambient and found sound. It’s seen him play Berghain, work alongside Thom Yorke, and more recently score films, TV shows and games. 

Known for their boundary-pushing performances of classical and contemporary music, Manchester Collective can be found everywhere, from underground nightclubs to the concert hall. The shape-shifting ensemble defies expectations with unexpected artistic collaborations, crafting their own brand of ‘radical human experiences’. 

Dates

25 Apr – Manchester – Bridgewater Hall – Book →

More dates TBC. Check times, ticket prices and access info via booking link

Approximate runtime: 70 mins plus interval

Line-up

Clark
Manchester Collective

 

PART OF

24/25

 
 
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  • We’re all about the atmosphere and immersion. You might encounter lighting to set the mood, amplified sound to deliver music straight to your eardrums, or maybe a little bit of haze.

    Between pieces, our performers often share a short explanation about the music. They might chat about what to listen out for, the themes or their personal experience.

    Rather than the standard black attire, our musicians wear what they feel is comfortable: whether that’s a colourful dress, or a woolly jumper if it’s chilly.

    To us, music is most powerful when it’s immediate and personal, not bound by convention. Whether you’re a first-timer or veteran concert-goer, you’re invited to a new kind of classical music experience.

  • From warehouses to concert halls, everywhere we play is unique.

    At underground and independent venues, it’s a more intimate experience. You can expect to get up close and personal to the musicians, hear outside noise and grab a drink at the bar. Don’t forget to wrap up warm!

    The “Book” links under Dates & Tickets lead to venue websites. There, you’ll be able to find specific access information. Please note that some independent venues might be standing shows, with the option to request a seat if you need one. This will be specified on the booking page.

    If you have any questions at all about access, get in touch at events@manchestercollective.co.uk and we’ll do our best to accommodate your needs.

  • Our performances aren’t formal – so you don’t have to be either! Dress in whatever style makes you feel comfortable, just as our performers do.

    If you’ve never been to a classical concert before, you might be worried about rules and etiquette. That’s not what we’re about. You’re free to bring the same excitement and respect you would to any other performance.

    Depending on the venue, you might be able to take a couple photos and short videos during the show. If you’re filming the entire gig, we promise we have better recordings on our YouTube channel.

    All we ask is that you listen with an open mind and ears.

“Exhilarating and intense. It felt like four gigs in one go”

AUDIENCE MEMBER, THE UNFURROWED FIELD

A patchwork of styles that shouldn’t work together but, by some mysterious alchemy, absolutely do.”

THE TIMES, LAD

 
 

Experimental programming.
Engaging performances.
Radical human experiences.

 
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