Talks over opera at city theatre

The development would create jobs at the theatre

The Royal Opera could soon have a base in Manchester.

Manchester City Council said it is in the "early stages" of discussions about the company having a presence at Palace Theatre on Oxford Street.

The Royal Ballet could also have a base at the theatre after talks with Palace owners Live Nation.

Sir Howard Bernstein, Manchester City Council chief executive, said there was still work to be done on the plans, but said it was "a compelling proposition".

The Palace Theatre is an iconic building in the heart of Manchester Tony Hall Royal Opera chief executive

"If successful, this will be fantastic for Manchester and further enhance our strong cultural offer," he said.

"Establishing a new production, training and performance base here for the Royal Opera House would deliver significant economic benefit to the city by attracting more visitors and creating new jobs for local people."

The Royal Opera House at Covent Garden, London, is home to both the Royal Opera and the Royal Ballet.

Tony Hall, the Royal Opera's chief executive, said he was "delighted" with developments in securing the base.

"The Palace Theatre is an iconic building in the heart of Manchester and is a perfect location for developing our relationship with cultural and educational centres in the city," Mr Hall said.

"Discussions are at a preliminary stage and we will be consulting with a wide range of stakeholders as we go forward."

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