53two

53two is a charity based in Manchester, United Kingdom working on arts & culture, disability, education.

53two is a theatre and arts charity based in Manchester city centre, in Grade II* listed arches on Watson Street. It runs a 150-seat theatre, a café and bar, and rehearsal and events spaces. The charity focuses on accessible, diverse and quality theatre, particularly new writing, and supports emerging and grassroots artists, performers with access needs, and people from disadvantaged backgrounds through affordable training, mentoring, grants and discounted tickets. Its work includes the Manchester Actors Platform, the 53New reduced-rate platform, the MAP48 short film competition and the Off Cut Festival. Profits from the bar and theatre are returned to the charity. 53two is a member of the Greater Manchester Small Venues Network, which it co-founded with other independent venues in the region to support small venues with fewer than 200 seats.