Stars get ready for Manchester Christmas lights switch-on

By Emma Davies

Girls Aloud star Nicola Roberts and chart-topper Tinchy Stryder are in Manchester tomorrow to flick the switch on the city's festive lights.

The free event, taking place in Albert Square from 6.30pm, will also include a special performance by the cast members from Dirty Dancing and also an appearance from Bury-born actress and singer, Suzanne Shaw, who will be playing Cinderella in the Opera House Christmas pantomime.

After Roberts and Stryder perform the big switch-on, the night sky above the city will come alive with a giant firework display.

The whole city will be buzzing with festive cheer and to help people get in the festive spirit, the Manchester Show Choir will be singing along with a performance from the winners of the Printworks street dance competition Soar I.N.K.

The whole show will be hosted by popular Key 103 radio presenters Mike Toolan and Chelsea Spokes.

And after all that excitement, round off the evening with a trip to the Arctic North Pole bar, in Cathedral Gardens, to warm yourself up in the ski chalet while indulging in a hot cocktail.

As ever, Manchester is the place to be over the Christmas period, with markets, pantomimes and even an ice rink, which will grace the city centre soon.

Keep checking Mancunian Matters for all the latest details.

Cinderella is at Manchester Opera House from December 3-31. Call 0844 871 3018 for tickets.