Manchester Hypes - The Treatment (Grime Theatre) + 10 Questions

Manchester grime pioneer Manchester Hypes is bringing his personal journey to the stage with The Treatment, an innovative new production blending grime, live theatre and striking visuals to explore the relationship between ADHD, mental health and creativity.

Part gig, part theatrical experience, The Treatment traces Hypes’ journey from childhood hyperactivity and rap battles in Manchester youth clubs to his father’s Moss Side barbershop, navigating the music industry and receiving an ADHD diagnosis as an adult. Driven by hard-hitting beats and immersive projections, the show offers an unfiltered insight into his experiences.

A founding figure of northern grime and creator of Burst Gang, Hypes has spent over two decades building his reputation, collaborating with the likes of Wiley, Tinie Tempah and Tinchy Stryder while championing emerging talent. His latest project sees him working alongside director Matt Fenton, dramaturg Reece Williams and producer Yussuf Maleem, with contributions from the next generation of Manchester MCs.

Beyond the performance, Friday’s show will feature a free discussion exploring ADHD, male mental health and creativity, while Saturday’s audience can enjoy a post-show party with DJ sets from Hypes and Reece Williams.

Commissioned by SICK! Productions and Contact, The Treatment promises a powerful collision of music, storytelling and lived experience, shining a light on subjects rarely explored through grime.

The show runs on October 30th & 31st and you can cop tickets here.

Manchester Hypes sat down with Wordplay Magazine to answer our infamous 10 Questions:

1. So tell me, how did it all begin? What sparked your love for music?

Growing up in Moss Side music was always around me. My granddad was a Soundman and my uncle was a garage DJ. Then grime became a way to express myself, tell stories and make sense of the world around me. It’s always been more than music for me - it’s about having a voice!

2. Who are some artists that influence you and that you want to work with in the future? 

I take influence more from life itself than other artists, but sonically I’m well-versed. I appreciate most styles of music so it’s hard for me to pinpoint it down to one artist. I want to work with more brands tbf.

3. What projects do you have coming up, and can you give us any info on them?

My biggest project right now is The Treatment, my multimedia grime theatre show. It blends music, spoken word, animation and personal storytelling, exploring my upbringing, mental health and Manchester’s music history. It’s like a live album, autobiography and theatre show rolled into one.

4. How would you describe your sound?

Raw, honest and versatile. Grime is at the heart of what I do, but I like experimenting with different genres and pushing creative boundaries. Whether it’s grime, house or dubstep, I want my music to have its own identity.

5. What’s your proudest moment to date so far as an artist?

Bringing The Treatment to life has to be up there. Being able to turn my life experiences into something creative that can educate, entertain and connect with people means a lot to me.

Picture Credit: Audrey Albert

6. Do you have any advice for our readers who may be trying to play the mad game of music?

Stay authentic, be consistent and don’t get caught up chasing likes and validation. Build something that lasts rather than something that looks good for a moment. Legacy over likes.

7. Are there any artists on your radar right now that we should check out?

In Manchester my little brother trxxy.  Family aside he’s one of my favourite artists right now. Suggz is cold aswel but he should already be on everyone’s radar.

8. What albums are on heavy rotation on your Spotify playlist currently?

My listening habits are all over the place. I could go from a new artist to some old skool dancehall. I can’t remember the last album I played all the way through because the way we listen to music has changed.

9. What do you like to do when you’re not making music?

Spending time with my family is a big one. I’m also passionate about working with young people, running music workshops and helping the next generation find their own voice through creativity.

10. Name three things you can’t live without when in the studio?

My laptop, a decent pair of headphones and my imagination! The equipment is important, but the ideas are what make the magic happen.