Our history

Over the years, the Martin Harris Centre has evolved as a vibrant and diverse venue providing access to the arts for all, and its growth and success is thanks to its dedicated staff, students and donors.

Sir Martin Harris (second from left) presenting the Martin Harris Prize for Cultural Engagement and Social Responsibility to students in 2016
Sir Martin Harris (second from left) presenting the Martin Harris Prize for Cultural Engagement and Social Responsibility to students in 2016.

Since its official opening in 2003, the Martin Harris Centre has hosted many famous names and even staged world firsts.

It was named after Professor Sir Martin Harris CBE, who was Vice-Chancellor of the Victoria University of Manchester from 1992 to 2004. A keen follower of the arts, Sir Martin was a key figure in securing funding for the Centre to be developed.

The Centre has established itself as an important venue for teaching, research and public engagement for the School of Arts Languages and Cultures and the wider University. It has also developed an impressive reputation for community and local school involvement and it is now an important University asset with an excellent record of attracting young people onto the campus.