Imagine the emerald fronds of palm trees swaying in a light breeze, white sands toasty from the sun’s rays, the clinking of ice cubes in a cocktail shaker…all right here in Manchester. This July, Backyard Cinema is bringing a slice of Miami Beach to the Depot Mayfield rooftop, transforming the space into an 80s-style beach paradise that feels plucked straight from the big screen.
As well as spectacular sets, there’ll be a variety of special events – think karaoke, singalongs and drag shows – where charismatic hosts and DJs will dial the fun up yet another notch. Plus, there’s a delicious array of street food to tuck into, perfectly paired with a themed cocktail from the flamingo beach bar. You’ll be able to sink into bean bag chairs, dig your toes in the sand and watch your favourite films under the stars.
What can you expect at Backyard Cinema?
This summer the manifestation of all your work-induced daydreams is coming to Manchester: the balmy beaches of Miami. The infamous beach city has played a role in many films throughout history; a pink-infused, palm tree-lined playground for Bad Boy crime capers, slick spy flicks and cringe-inducing oddball comedies (ahem There’s Something About Mary). Now, the vibrant location has escaped the screen and Depot Mayfield is inviting customers to check in to Miami Beach Hotel where they can tuck into mouth-watering street food and sip boozy cocktails in front of an epic lineup of films.
What epic lineup you may ask? Well, Dirty Dancing fans better break out their crop tops and acid-wash jeans to indulge in some cinematic nostalgia with a special Dirty Dancing Beach Party, complete with light shows, special effects and a whole load of audience participation. Looking forward to seeing Margot Robbie’s Barbie on the big screen? What better way to see that pastel-dipped childhood wonderland than among the swaying palm trees and white sands of Backyard Cinema’s equally dreamy Miami Beach? There’s also a glittering Big Drag Takeover on the horizon and the opportunity to sing your heart out to Grease, Mamma Mia and The Greatest Showman. So yes, epic indeed.
Given the name, it might not be the biggest surprise to learn that Backyard Cinema started in its founder’s back garden: a group of friends enjoying a Blues Brothers sing and dance-along, with fancy dress, food, drink, the whole works. The passion project took off from there and now they are one of the leading alternative cinema experiences in the UK. Over the years they have brought film to spectacular life, creating immersive and interactive events that immerse you in magical worlds, winter wonderlands, circus shenanigans and first-class aviation fun. Make sure you sign up to the waitlist now if you fancy jetting off to the beautiful beaches of Miami – no passport or pricey plane tickets required.
