European festivals Association

Factory International is at the heart of Manchester’s buzzing arts scene. As the organisation behind Manchester International Festival (MIF) and the landmark new cultural space Aviva Studios, Factory International helps put Manchester on the map as a world-leading destination for arts, music and culture.

Producing an ambitious year-round programme of original creative work, music and special events, Factory International builds on the magic of MIF, which has captivated audiences from Manchester and beyond since 2007. With a vision to invent tomorrow together, Factory International is all about the new – championing new ways of creating and producing new collaborations and new works that blur the boundaries between art and pop culture. Audiences can catch world-class acts and Greater Manchester’s rising stars at the brand-new Aviva Studios, as well as online, internationally and at the city-wide Festival held every other year.

A space for invention and discovery, the landmark new building is designed by Ellen van Loon of the world-leading Office for Metropolitan Architecture. Ultra-flexible, Aviva Studios can adapt to host any kind of set-up – from intimate theatre shows and intricate exhibitions, to huge multimedia performances and warehouse-scale gigs fit for the greatest artists of our time. Matching Manchester’s ethos as an ever-evolving city, this dynamic space invites artists to create bold new work by providing a canvas to make, explore and experiment. Outside the venue, pop-up performances, events and markets create a buzzing riverside destination for all to enjoy.

In the digital realm, Factory International offers a lab for experimentation. Pushing the possibilities of technology, audiences can experience works created within the virtual world, as well as livestreamed and hybrid events.

At home in Manchester, Factory International is training the creative workforce of the future through the Factory Academy. Always championing the residents of Greater Manchester, its pioneering creative engagement and artist development programmes build on MIF’s record of working with communities and providing jobs, skills, training and creative opportunities for local people.

Proudly international in spirit and practice, Factory International works with venues, festivals and companies worldwide to bring together the most exciting artists on the planet. Teaming up with local, national and international partners, it produces and premieres major new work, promoting a culture of sharing and collaboration.

Rooted in the city – with an international outlook – Factory International cements Manchester’s status as a city known for cutting-edge art and innovation.