David Slack came up with the idea of 24:7 whilst performing at The Edinburgh Festival in 2002.

Inspired by a city, alive with creative vibrancy, twenty-four hours a day, he and co-founder Amanda Hennessy, developed a plan to bring the most exciting elements of the Fringe to Manchester.

The focus was to be on new writing and untapped acting talent, a showcase for new and exciting theatre to be seen in the heart of their hometown – in very unconventional spaces.

With no budget available, but a wealth of determination and creative ingenuity, the first festival took place in bars and clubs around the city centre, attracting 1,600 audience members – in one week.

Since bursting into life five years ago, 24:7 has attracted the support of many high-profile names from theatre, film and television and now has financial backing from The Arts Council and several other major companies.

Public support has been overwhelming. Since it’s birth in 2004, audiences have almost doubled.

Lucky theatre fans will have the opportunity to treat themselves again this year as we showcase a further 21 original new plays in a weeklong feast of variety, cutting-edge drama and comedy – handpicked by our prestigious judges from literally hundreds of submissions.

24:7 provides venues and technical support for all companies involved; the rest is left to the producers  - usually the writers themselves. These dedicated and talented individuals have shown us time and time again that theatrical excellence can be achieved with little money and big ideas.

This indomitable creative passion is the lifeblood of the festival, but it could not thrive without the generosity of our wonderful team of part-time staff and volunteers, who donate their time and expertise to make each year a massive and resounding success.