Johnny Marr to play two special Manchester shows backed by orchestra- ticket details and what to expect

The Smiths guitarist Johnny Marr is returning to Manchester with two very special shows. For the first time ever, Marr and his band will be joined on stage by a 30 piece orchestra. 

The orchestra has been especially pieced together by Marr. They will be led by conductor Fiona Brice.  The gigs arrive as part of a wave of activity celebrating the last decade of Johnny’s solo body of work - 10 prolific years since the release of his 2013 debut solo album, The Messenger.

These two exclusive shows will come after what has been a busy year for Marr. He has debuted as yet unreleased music at shows taking place across the UK and Europe. Fans in Manchester are set to join in getting a waste this winter.

Marr will perform at the new Aviva Studios in Manchester. The shows will take place on December 7 and 8, making for a perfect pre-Christmas trip out. 

Speaking ahead of the Factory International shows, Johnny said: “I’ve had two experiences of playing with an orchestra – Hans Zimmer, obviously, and also with Pet Shop Boys – but to actually sing in front of an orchestra playing my own work, that’s a first. You can’t help feeling a little bit emotional.

“It’s been really enjoyable working on the arrangements. I’ve been doing a lot of pre- orchestration work, and some of the songs have taken on a sort of highly pumped symphonic feel.”

How to get tickets to A Night With the Johnny Marr orchestra

Tickets for the two nights at Aviva Studios are on sale now. You can purchase tickets through the Factory International website.