Royal Exchange Theatre

Manchester's Royal Exchange Theatre Company transforms how people see theatre, each other, and the world around them. Its historic building was taken over by artists in 1976. Today it is an award-winning cultural charity that produces new theatre in-the-round, in communities, on the road and online.

From rags to riches and back again, we follow working-class Yorkshire lass Viv who won a fortune on the Football Pools in 1961 and went on lavish spending sprees, splashing out on furs, cars, champagne, and parties – until it all came crashing down around her.

Addicted to excess and seduced by materialism, Viv takes us through the kaleidoscopic and messy journey of her life. From the two-up two-downs of Castleford to the grandeur of Garforth, to new handbags and husbands, Viv faces the ultimate question: after the champagne stops flowing, can money really buy happiness? This carnivalesque musical comedy is the big-hearted experience everyone needs this festive season.

Directed by Josh Seymour and with Rachel Leskovac (nominated for an Olivier Award for her portrayal of the young Viv Nicholson in the original London production) in the leading role, this wildly funny and profoundly moving award-winning musical is an extraordinary rags-to-riches and back again story.

Dedicated to the memory of Steve Brown, who passed away earlier this year.