Manto
Manto ("Manchester Tomorrow") is a gay bar in Canal Street, Manchester.
It opened in 1991, having been built by Benedict Smith Architects.[1] Unlike the other gay bars at that time, Manto had large glass windows, allowing the casual passer-by to view what was going on inside. Previously many establishments catering for the gay community were keen to conceal activities from the general public, but the architectural design of Manto was seen as a queer visual statement "we're here, we're queer – get used to it". A brick-and-mortar refusal to hide any more, to remain underground and invisible.[2]
- "Manto was one of the catalysts for Manchester's now-established bar scene, proudly showcasing the creativity and vibrancy of the gay scene behind a glass front for the first time. Now more institution than rebellious innovator, it's nevertheless still a big draw."[3]
References
Partly based on the Wikipedia article "Canal Street (Manchester).
<references>
- ↑ Claire Hartwell, Manchester. (Pevsner Architectural Guides) New Haven: Yale U P 2001; pages 149-50
- ↑ John Binnnie, | authorlink Cosmopolitan Urbanism, Routledge, 2006 page = 230 isbn =0-415-34491-3
- ↑ http://www.timeout.com/manchester/clubs/venue/1%3A29397/manto Time Out