A single actor stands on a stripped-back stage, and yet an entire city springs to life before your eyes. That’s the magic of A Manchester Anthem at Hope Mill Theatre – a powerful new one-man show redefining Manchester theatre and leaving a lasting impression you won’t forget.
Stepping into Hope Mill Theatre, you’re greeted by a minimal set of simple cardboard boxes, yet the energy radiating from the single performer, Tom Claxton, fills the room with life. From the moment the lights hit him, Claxton transports you to the heart of Manchester, his performance a vivid and heartfelt exploration of identity, ambition, and belonging.
A coming-of-age story
A Manchester Anthem tells the story of Tommy, a bright young Mancunian preparing for a life-changing transition. After securing a place at the University of Oxford, Tommy celebrates his final night in Manchester in a drunken frenzy, reflecting on the relationships, challenges, and experiences that have shaped him.
The character’s complexities are unveiled against the backdrop of Manchester itself. From lively house parties and drug-fuelled raves to shady back-alley conversations and quiet moments of reflection, the city becomes more than a setting.
Tom Claxton’s performance as Tommy
Tom Claxton doesn’t just portray Tommy – he becomes him. He shifts effortlessly between characters, bringing to life an entire ensemble with nothing but his voice, humour, and movement. From Tommy’s childhood friends to the pretentious future Oxford frenemies, each character is distinct and memorable.
Claxton’s one-man show isn’t just a performance – it’s a transformation. He seamlessly showcases his incredible versatility as he shifts between characters, each one instantly recognisable, even without a costume change or extra cast. His improvisation and willingness to interact with the audience also make the show feel unique, like it’s being performed just for you.
Claxton’s improvised interactions with the audience add an extra layer of authenticity to the character. Whether it’s a cheeky comment or a moment of intense eye contact, he makes the performance feel personal and tailored to the energy of the room.
Minimalism on stage
With nothing more than a collection of cardboard boxes, the creative team behind A Manchester Anthem, produced by Cloudburst Productions, crafts an astonishingly immersive world.
The simplicity of the set enhances the storytelling, allowing your imagination to fill the gaps when prompted by the incredibly descriptive narration. You feel the echoes of Manchester’s bustling streets, the atmosphere of a lively club, and the quiet intensity of bittersweet goodbyes.
Nick Dawkins’ emotional playwriting
Nick Dawkins’ talent for playwriting is undeniable. Originally written seven years ago as a birthday gift for Claxton, the script brims with heart. It first found its feet at VAULT Festival in 2023 before transferring to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival that summer.
Every line carries humour, friendship, and the music and dancing of memories. It’s a script that lives through Claxton’s performance, and you feel that connection in every moment on stage.
Dawkins’ writing captures the raw essence of friendship and family, while exploring themes of class, opportunity, and the pull between leaving home and staying true to your roots. The result is deeply personal yet universally relatable. You don’t need to be from Manchester to connect with Tommy’s struggles and triumphs – but if you have called the city home, or share a similar background, it resonates on an even deeper level.
A Manchester Anthem - Final thoughts
A Manchester Anthem isn’t just a play; it’s an experience. One moment you’ll be laughing out loud, the next you’ll find yourself quietly reflective. Tommy’s dilemmas feel deeply real, echoing universal truths about navigating change and carving out a path while honouring where you come from.
Whether you’re a seasoned theatre enthusiast or simply looking for an evening of impactful storytelling, this show is a reminder of theatre’s power to move us. With Claxton’s incredible performance at its core, A Manchester Anthem proves that great theatre doesn’t need bells and whistles to pull you in – just honesty, heart, and outstanding craft.
If you missed the recent Manchester run, A Manchester Anthem will be returning to London’s Riverside Studios from 19 August – 13 September 2025.
