WEEKEND COLUMN SATURDAY 18 OCTOBER 2025
- STEVE COOKE AATA
- 2 minutes ago
- 9 min read
previews, reviews, interviews, and recommendations with Steve Cooke
WEEKEND COLUMN SATURDAY 18 OCTOBER 2025
Northern Lands Public Art Trail
Preview by Steve Cooke
Coming in November is the Northern Lands Public Art Trail, a collaborative project between the Culture Co-op Rochdale and Ebor Studio.
Culture Co-op Rochdale have commissioned four artist members of Ebor Studio to create four new public immersive art pieces in various areas across the Pennine Townships in response to heritage topics of the area. These include social politics, the history of clogging, the work commute, and the past and current relationship we have with the Rochdale Canal and how it is used.
The Artists
Maryanne Royle
Working site specifically with time based media, Maryanne Royle creates immersive and poetic experiences relevant to the character and heritage of places. In the last two years she has been commissioned by Leeds 2023, Arts Council England, Rochdale Pioneers Museum, PRS Foundation, and The Whitaker Museum.
Natalie Sharp
Natalie Sharp is a mixed race disabled anti-disciplinary artist whose practice blends sound, performance, moving image and sensory installation to create immersive, collective experiences. Rooted in access, queer ecology, and the body, her work transforms spaces into environments of horizontality, intimacy, and deep play.
Helen Davis
Helen is a knit, crochet and embroidery artist. Her work is often wearable or moveable. She loves showing her work as part of a living, moving body, or animated as a puppet. She frequently explores political and social subjects.
Helen Davis
Helen is a knit, crochet and embroidery artist. Her work is often wearable or moveable. She loves showing her work as part of a living, moving body, or animated as a puppet. She frequently explores political and social subjects.
Stefan Byrom
Stefan Byrom is a documentary photographer whose work serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of cherishing the working-class traditions and memories that define the North of England. His images are not just photographs, they are a bridge between past and present, a celebration of the enduring spirit of Northern communities.
Culture Co-op Rochdale’s job is to resource communities to decide what counts as art and culture, where it happens, who experiences it and who makes it.
The team are looking for people to become Cultural Pioneers – people with big ideas and a love of their community – people who have been doing amazing work for years.- people who have an idea they want to see come to life - local people who know what people want and are ready to make it happen.
Cultural Pioneers have the opportunity to :
Set up your own arts and cultural activities locally
Be given money to make them happen.
Work alongside music producers, choreographers, chefs and street artists.
Get free tickets to performances and art shows.
Take advantage of paid opportunities.
To find out more visit: https://www.theculturecoop.org/joinus
The Coliseum is alive and kicking
By Steve Cooke
The building that was the historic home of Oldham Coliseum Theatre will now reopen in 2026; it has been announced.
The decision was taken after initial construction work revealed that more time would be needed to ensure that the building is properly ready to welcome back audiences. Working closely with contractors Tilbury Douglas, everyone is now progressing plans to ensure the new Coliseum is everything it should be and more for audiences when it reopens next year.
Cllr Arooj Shah, Leader of Oldham Council, said: "It's disappointing not to be reopening the Fairbottom Street building for panto 2025 as it's such a special part of Oldham's festive season, but unexpected bumps in the road often happen with a project of this scale. Rather than rush to open before the building is ready, our decision to extend the construction period gives us the time needed to get the details absolutely right. It was clear to us all that if we opened in 2025, the experience wouldn't live up to the high standards our audience deserve.”
"We owe it to everyone, the artists, staff, and most importantly our audiences, to get this right. This is about securing a bright and sustainable future for theatre in Oldham and building something that will serve our community for generations. I can’t wait to open the doors in 2026."
Martina Murphy, CEO, Oldham Coliseum Theatre, said: "We know how important the annual panto is to Oldhamers and had hoped to welcome audiences back to Fairbottom Street later this year. While we’re gutted about the delay, we know that when the theatre reopens in 2026, it will be back with a bang.”
"In the meantime, the spirit of the Coliseum lives on. As a company, Oldham Coliseum Theatre continues to produce exciting work across the Borough, bringing theatre to communities and keeping alive our connection with audiences. We’ve just wrapped up our spring programme and will be announcing our summer line-up soon."
Adopted Oldhamer Julie Hesmondhalgh, who is also a leading member of the Friends of Oldham Coliseum, said: “The Friends of the Coliseum are relieved and happy that plans to mount the Coli panto this year have been put on hold. Better to return with a beautiful, bold and glittering bang than do something half-baked in a building that isn’t yet ready.
“We’re excited for the future and will be a key part in taking Oldham audiences with us, through a series of films and podcasts which will follow and share progress of the building, as well as interviewing key players in the reopening.”
“We are grateful as ever to Oldham Council for listening to the experts in the field.”
The council and its partners will continue to issue updates as work progresses on the Fairbottom Street building.
For upcoming Oldham Coliseum Theatre performances and events, visit: https://www.coliseum.org.uk/
In the meantime, there is still plenty for theatre goers to enjoy such as MACBETH RETOLD
Be pulled deep into the world of The Bard's darkest tragedy with this alchemic solo performance from theatre artist and storyteller Debs Newbold.
From worthy warrior to marked man, from hero to murderer; Macbeth's fate is set from the start in this tense and gripping re-telling of Macbeth, the third in Debs Newbold’s trilogy of re-imagined Shakespeare stories.
Originally commissioned by the Hay Literary Festival, a sell-out at Shakespeare's Globe and the talk of festivals both in the UK and abroad, this is an unforgettable, shimmering work of performance storytelling that will haunt you for a very long time to come.
Age Guide: Adults and accompanied children 14+
Content Advisory: Reference to mental health, murder and violence.
Tickets from £12
7.30pm, 20 November
George Street Chapel, 58 George St, Oldham OL1 1LS
Family Halloween Party
Preview by Steve Cooke
Born To Be Wild Child take over Aviva Studios with a Monster Mash Halloween Bash for the whole family.
Dust off your broomsticks! This popular Family Rave returns for a Halloween special led by Born To Be Wild Child. Expect disco dancing, Halloween-themed crafts, a bubble show and much more.
Dance until you drop at the Dreadful Ghoul Disco featuring parachute games, balloons and tattoo art – all set to a stellar soundtrack for the adults.
Watch wacky experiments and magic tricks at the Magic Bubble Show led by Cequin Circus. And decorate your own monster mask or witch/wizard hat ready for the Freaky Fashion Show!
Prefer something quieter? There is a Trick or Treat ghost hunters trail – plus spooky story time and sensory play for all ages.
Don’t forget to come dressed in your favourite spooky outfit – adults too!
Suitable for all ages - Under 14s must be accompanied by an adult 18+
Accessibility features available for this event: Wheelchair Access
Running time: 2 Hours
£5
Children aged under 18 months go free, please add a Babes in Arms ticket type when booking. (This allows one child under 18 months to attend without their own seat if they sit on a paying adult’s lap)
31 Oct 2025
First slot: 11.30am – 1.30pm
Second slot: 2.30–4.30pm
The Social, Aviva Studios, Water Street, Manchester M3 4JQ
You can approach Aviva Studios along Water Street (coming from Quay Street) or along Liverpool Road (coming from Deansgate or Castlefield). Both entrances to the building have double sets of glass doors.
YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN AT HOPE MILL THEATRE
Preview by Steve Cooke
From the creators of the record-breaking Broadway sensation, The Producers, comes this monster musical comedy. The comedy genius, Mel Brooks, adapts his legendarily funny film into a brilliant stage creation – Young Frankenstein!
Grandson of the infamous Victor Frankenstein, Frederick Frankenstein (pronounced “Fronk-en-steen”) inherits his family’s estate in Transylvania. With the help of a hunchbacked sidekick, Igor (pronounced “Eye-gore”), and a leggy lab assistant, Inga (pronounced normally), Frederick finds himself in the mad scientist shoes of his ancestors. “It’s alive!” he exclaims as he brings to life a creature to rival his grandfather’s. Eventually, of course, the monster escapes and hilarity continuously abounds.
Every bit as relevant to audience members who will remember the original as it will be to newcomers, Young Frankenstein has all the of panache of the screen sensation with a little extra theatrical flair added. It will surely be the perfect opportunity for a production company to showcase an array of talents. With such memorable tunes as “The Transylvania Mania,” “He Vas My Boyfriend” and “Puttin’ on the Ritz,” by Irving Berlin Young Frankenstein is scientifically proven, monstrously good entertainment.
The regional premiere of Young Frankenstein is Directed and Choreographed by Nick Winston (MAME, Burlesque) and is part of Hope Mill Theatre’s 10th Anniversary Celebrations.
Starring Ore Oduba (Rocky Horror Show, Grease, Strictly Come Dancing) as Freddie Frankenstein, Pete Gallagher (Jesus Christ Superstar, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang) as his monster and Julie Yammanee (Clueless, Priscilla Queen of the Desert) as the glamourous Inga, the Mel Brooks classic is on now at Hope Mill Theatre.
Full of giggles, gags and songs including Puttin’ on the Ritz and The Transylvania Mania, don't miss your chance to see this corker of a production.
On until 30 November
Tickets £27 - £42
Suitable for ages 13 and over
Relaxed Performance 22/10/25 Captioned Performance 4/11/25
Audio Described 23/11/25 Touch Tour 1pm 23/11/25
Hope Mill Theatre, 113 Pollard Street, Manchester M4 7JA
A 2 minute walk from New Islington Metrolink Station. Just one stop from Manchester Piccadilly.
Car park on site, it is free to use, but they cannot guarantee spaces. On street parking is limited to 90 minutes. There is a paid-for car park near to New Islington Metrolink Station.
RECOMMENDED
Saturday, 18 October 2025
Littleborough U3A Reading Group - Littleborough Library
3rd Saturday of every month. A monthly reading group for U3A Littleborough members.
The group reads a book every month. which we generally borrow from the library collection of books saved especially for reading groups. We then discuss the book at our monthly meeting, often having very lively discussions.
Booking required: You must be a U3A member to take part in U3A activities. Join Littleborough U3A: https://littleborough.u3asite.uk/welcome/
You need to have a paid annual Littleborough U3A subscription
10.30am - 11.30am
Littleborough Library, Hare Hill Park, Littleborough OL15 9HE
You must be a U3A member to take part in U3A activities. Join Littleborough U3A
Saturday, 18 October 2025
Lego Club - Rochdale Central Library
Every other Saturday. Get creative with Lego and join our free club, suitable for all the family. There's Duplo available for younger siblings.
For families with children aged 2 and over, and teenagers.
No need to book, you can just turn up.
Free
12pm - 1pm
Rochdale Central Library, Number One Riverside, Smith Street, Rochdale OL16 1XU
Saturday, 25 October 2025
Oktoberfest Rochdale 2025
Get ready to raise your steins as Oktoberfest Rochdale is back and bigger than ever. Experience an unforgettable evening of Bavarian fun inside the breathtaking surroundings of Rochdale Town Hall.
Get ready to sing, dance, and raise your steins with our incredible live oompah band. Enjoy a wide range of authentic German beers, plus gin, spirits, wines, and of course – plenty of Jäger. Expect traditional drinking games, Bavarian vibes, and a party like no other.
Whether you're a seasoned Oktoberfest fan or a first timer, this is one night you don’t want to miss. Grab your lederhosen and book now for a night to remember.
For adults.
Booking required: Book tickets online through What's Occurrin' Rochdale: https://www.whatsoccurrinrochdale.co.uk/
Email: hello@RochdaleTownHall.co.uk
Tickets from £20
7pm - 10.30pm
Rochdale Town Hall, The Esplanade, Rochdale OL16 1AZ
Wednesday, 29 October 2025
Flying the Flag for Libraries Workshop - Rochdale Central Library
Work with professional artists to co-design a bespoke flag that celebrates nature and the power of libraries.
Led by Cabasa CIC, you'll work with professional artists to co-design a bespoke flag that celebrates nature and the power of libraries. No experience needed, just bring your imagination.
For families.
Booking required: book your place for this event on Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/flying-the-flag-for-green-libraries-tickets-1716379028879?aff=ebdssbdestsearch
Free
2pm - 4pm
Rochdale Central Library, Number One Riverside, Smith Street, Rochdale OL16 1XU
Wednesday 22 October 2025
Toad Lane Concerts - Rochdale's Weekly Music at Lunchtime
This week we have - Oldham Community Choir (40th Anniversary) Jonathan Gibson conductor J Edward Rigg piano
The concert series has been held at St Mary’s since 2001 and was granted the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2020.
Running every Wednesday, Music at Lunchtime is a weekly live classical music concert series that has been going since the 1960s. The sessions were initially run at the old Rochdale Art Gallery by the local authority, but since May 2001 have been run by volunteer-enthusiasts and artistic director, Dr Joe Dawson.
£6
Phone: Dr Joe Dawson 01706 648872
Doors open 12noon, concert starts 12.30pm - 1.30pm
St Mary in the Baum, Toad Lane/St Mary's Gate, Rochdale OL16 1DZ
celebrating creative arts and artists - an oasis of positivity supporting individual and community wellbeing.