LGM Program Day Reflection – Arts & Culture Day 2026
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eing born and raised in Manchester, I sometimes think I know everything about our Queen City. However, our LGM Art & Culture class reminded me that there is so much more to discover and appreciate in this beautiful City we call home.
We started the day at the Majestic Theatre, which, surprisingly, I was unaware even existed, even as they celebrate their 35th season! I was pleasantly surprised to learn that they acquired Ted Herbert’s music school in 2016, ensuring its legacy would continue. While there, we learned about the Manchester Music School and several local dance studios. Their performances were incredible and showcased the immense talent we have right here in our city. The dancers also reminded us that they offer a variety of activities beyond traditional classes, including dance nights and community events, so be sure to check them out.
One of my favorite parts of the morning was participating in a highly competitive game of Rock, Paper, Scissors, along with team-building activities such as “Let’s and Yes” and a musical version of fruit salad. These exercises were not only fun but also highlighted the importance of creativity, collaboration, and stepping outside of our comfort zones.
For lunch, we headed to the Marquis Club at the Palace Theatre. Everyone seemed to enjoy their potato creations! A special shoutout to The Potato Concept for once again delivering a fun and delicious meal. They certainly know how to make a spud exciting. 
From there, we walked over to the Spotlight Room, where we learned how the Palace Theatre hosts VIP guests prior to performances. Next came one of the most intriguing parts of the day: our “First Date with the Arts” breakout sessions. I think many of us initially wondered what we had signed up for, but everyone left with smiles and positive energy.
Participants had the opportunity to explore different forms of creativity through activities such as drawing, watercolor painting, ceramics, and reflective thinking exercises. I left this experience carrying with me something that had been said earlier in the day: “We are all creative, it’s just a matter of how we define creativity.” That message resonated deeply and served as a reminder that art isn’t limited to a canvas or stage; it lives within all of us.
Our next stop was The Rex, where we heard from muralist James Chase. He spoke passionately about the way public art can transform communities and improve lives. His work serves as a reminder that art is much more than something to admire. It can inspire connection, spark conversation, and create a sense of pride in a community. And really, isn’t that what art is all about?
We then toured the historic Palace Theatre and learned several fascinating facts about this Manchester gem. The theater’s acoustics are so exceptional that audience members seated in the balcony can hear performers clearly. During the COVID shutdown, the theater’s gold interior was painstakingly repainted and restored. Long before modern air conditioning, the theater was cooled by bringing in massive blocks of ice. We also learned from Peter Ramsey that green room earned its name because green has 
traditionally been viewed as a calming color for performers preparing to take the stage.
We ended our day at the place most Manchester residents probably associate with art and culture: the Currier Museum of Art. There, we explored current exhibits including Spray: Jules Olitski in the 1960s and Danny Lyon: The Bikeriders. Both exhibits offered unique perspectives and showcased the diverse ways art can capture moments, emotions, and social movements.
As the day came to a close, we thanked Lauren Clark for coordinating such an engaging and memorable program. This final Leadership Greater Manchester class was bittersweet. It was fun, informative, inspiring, and a wonderful
way to conclude this chapter of our journey together.
The greatest lesson I took away from the day is that art and culture are everywhere in Manchester. They are in our theaters, museums, murals, music schools, and community spaces. More importantly, they are woven into the fabric of our city and the people who make it special. Sometimes we just need to slow down, look around, and appreciate what has been there all along.
Thank you to everyone who helped make this day, and this Leadership Greater Manchester experience, so memorable. The future of our Queen City is bright, creative, and full of possibility.
