Not sure about external architecture styling but it has a fantastic internal space. Capable of being configured to host the most exciting of exhibitions. Will bring some fantastic shows/events and put manchester on the international arts circuit.

We went for the Yayoi Kusama exhibition You, Me and the Balloons. When entering the first room, the scale and fullness of the room with bright yellow tentacles was awesome. That first experience was a clever opener, but I thought the main room could have been prepared in a similar way to make it more of a visual experience. The main room had lots of great big inflatables, but I thought the blank walls and ceilings, and the space between each piece, took away from the visual hit. Still had a fun time, especially with the pink tentacle forest, which had a base and the pieces leaning over had a similar effect as the yellow room.

As of 26th of August 2023 this place has lots of potential. We went to see "You, Me And The Balloons" in what could be described as a Warehouse. We walked up a flight of stairs to enter a door with some amazing inflatable sculptures. This part of the exhibit was enclosed and you were interested in yellow polka dot shapes. Leaving this area took you to a gantry which overlooked a vast area with many different inflatables ranging from huge cartoon dogs and a pumpkin to floating spherical shapes and a couple of large doll-like figures. On walking down to ground level you could get a closer look and appreciate the scale. There was an area called the clouds which were said to be inflatables that people could sit on and soak up the experience. They felt more like bean bags but the area was pleasant enough to sit and enjoy a different view of the exhibits. One wall close by ear mirrored which gave another perspective on the huge space. One exhibit had a looking glass type window which gave a kaleidoscope effect which you were looking through at in the centre. It was possible to walk inside another exhibit which had floating polka dot shapes and mirrors. All in all an interesting experience along with a quirky disco in the toilet area this site promises to be spectacular and entertaining. I think there's still areas to complete and at the moment there's not much else around in terms of drinks and eating.

Went to see 'Free your Mind' dance show by various people but was also by Danny Boyle! Was a wonderful experience and what I believe will be a one off performance in Manchester. The show is based loosely around 'The Matrix' but loosely being the main point as bears little resemblance to the actual movie. No need to have watched it, but helps if you have. The show is in two halves, if you can't stand for the second half there are a few bench seats so beware. I won't give too much away as the show is on for another week, go if you can get tickets as ii is a truly great performance! More than 50 dancers in all, who all show masterful choreography and their ability to be in time to amazing musical scores. It has a definite Manchester theme throughout and the main 'intro' by an amazing Manchester scientist, but I won't give anything away 🤣 it is a wonderful person who you would never guess! The actual concert hall allows shows of this nature to be performed in a dynamic conversion of original brickwork architecture entwined with the modernistic and highly advanced technical stages within. It's worth the visit just to admire what has been created in the heritage building, another theatre venue for Manchester.

Amazing new venue for Manchester. Such a well-designed space with such versatility for shows and concerts. Their opening show, based loosely on the Matrix movies, showcases the building perfectly and is a great advert for the venue and Manchester. There are plenty of bars, eateries, seating and facilities to support large crowds. There are plenty of local car parks, but the Spinningfields car park run by NCP is probably the nearest and safest place to leave your car. A place to make you proud and curious. Incredible.

Went to see the You, Me and the Balloons exhibition with my children. It is a great venue /exhibition space. It is the first time we visited and would definitely go back. There is a large entrance area with a nice shop and cafe area. Also a craft station for kids and also a little play area for babies.

Unreal place! Brand new! We came to watch the show ‘Free Your Mind’ which was the first production to be showcased in aviva studios. Free your mind was outstanding!! Staff was super helpful when giving directions and advising us where to go at intermission :)

This is an amazing venue - and vast too! We went to see the truly awesome inspiring Matrix opening show which used both the huge theatre (pictured) and the already opened display space. It’s a massive venue. A bit ‘brutal architecture’ in the common areas but great that we have a new venue. The cafe/bar service is abysmal though - if you want coffee you have to go one end of the bar, if you want drinks you have to go another end of the bar - and pay separately!