MOBO Awards Revitalize Iconic Manchester Venue
Volunteers armed with paint and cleaning supplies spent last weekend restoring the Niamos Radical Arts & Centre in Hulme. The work prepared the building for a sold-out MOBO Fringe event on Saturday, March 22, 2026.
Weekend preparations and the Fringe event
Organisers say the centre will host panels, performances and industry activations. Hundreds of guests are expected to pass through the doors during the day.
The Fringe is part of a city-wide programme tied to the MOBO awards arriving in Manchester. The main ceremony takes place at the Co-op Arena on Thursday, March 26, 2026.
Artists and programme highlights
The MOBO awards night will feature performances by Olivia Dean, Aitch, Myles Smith and Flo. Local DJs and rising talent will appear at the Niamos event.
Salford-based Studio 88 organised the Niamos Fringe activation. Its founder, Darrius Stewart, said the event provides an opportunity to connect local artists with wider audiences.
Historic building saved and revived
The theatre was built in 1902 as a Hippodrome. The BBC occupied it from 1956, and stars such as The Beatles and Nina Simone performed there.
In the 1990s it became Europe’s first African and Caribbean-led theatre. It was an artistic and activist hub until closure in 1997.
- 1902: Building opened as a Hippodrome.
- 1956: BBC moved into the premises.
- 1997: Centre closed after years of activity.
- 2017: NIAMOS collective raised £14,500 to save the venue.
- 2026: Hosting a MOBO Fringe event and renewed community use.
Financial struggles and a fragile recovery
Rising costs in recent years pushed the centre toward closure again. Management negotiated lower tariffs and a new payment plan with the landlord.
Community groups have restarted workshops and events at the site. Directors say local use is steadily increasing.
Leadership and local connections
Dr Mario Farquharson became director about a year ago. He views the MOBO partnership as key to raising the centre’s profile.
Darrius Stewart’s involvement links the event to Longsight’s music community. His father, Barrington Stewart, performed with Happy Mondays, Incognito and 808 State.
Cultural significance and wider impact
Organisers framed the Fringe as a way to bring the MOBOs into neighbourhood spaces. They want the moment to spotlight Manchester’s Black music heritage.
Planners also referenced recent figures showing Black-origin genres generate a large share of UK music revenue. They argue that recognition should translate into local investment.
What comes next
Hosts hope attendees return to the Niamos site after the Fringe. The event could spark more bookings and renewed community activity.
Supporters say the MOBO Awards Revitalize Iconic Manchester Venue and help secure its future. They want sustained funding and partnerships to build on this momentum.
Filmogaz.com will monitor developments and report on post-Fringe activity at the Niamos Radical Arts & Centre.
