WEEKEND COLUMN SATURDAY 30 AUGUST 2025
- STEVE COOKE AATA
- 2 minutes ago
- 10 min read
previews, reviews, interviews, and recommendations with Steve Cooke
WEEKEND COLUMN SATURDAY 30 AUGUST 2025
Call Out for Local Voices: Share Your Favourite Place in Rochdale
Preview by Steve Cooke
If you live and/or work in Rochdale, the Poet Laureate Sammy Weaver wants to hear from YOU.
She wants to know, “What is your favourite place in Rochdale and why?”
Select responses will be woven by her into an original poem celebrating the borough.
Don’t miss the chance to see your thoughts and stories become part of a unique poem for Rochdale!
Sammy Weaver, will collate all answers to inspire an original poem as part of Rochdale's Town of Culture Year 25-26.
Sammy says “Poetry has the power to bring people together. By sharing your favourite place, you’re helping to create something that celebrates Rochdale in all its variety and richness.”
The poem will be exhibited and published in early 2026.
Submissions will be anonymised.
Anyone can take part by filling out a short online form here: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/Qp1SND8eLx [When you submit this form, it will not automatically collect your details like name and email address unless you provide it yourself.]
The deadline for submissions is 12th September 2025.
Rochdale Comedy Festival - An evening of neurodivergent brilliance with Dave Twentyman and Robin Ince
Preview by Steve Cooke
One of the many highlights of the upcoming Rochdale Comedy Festival is An evening of neurodivergent brilliance with Dave Twentyman and Robin Ince.
It promises to be a brilliant night of stand-up comedy in the stunning Bright Hall at Rochdale Town Hall — a perfect setting for an evening of big laughs and sharp wit.
Kicking things off is the very popular and effortlessly funny Dave Twentyman, whose relatable stories and cheeky charm have made him a crowd favourite across the country. From family mishaps to everyday absurdities, Dave’s warm style and quick delivery guarantee a cracking start to the night.
He’ll be introducing the one and only Robin Ince, bringing his latest tour show “The Universe and the Neurodiverse” to Rochdale. It’s a joyful, mind-expanding journey through the quirks of human thought, the wonders of the cosmos, and the beauty of difference — all delivered with Robin’s trademark mix of humour, insight, and infectious enthusiasm.
Robin is known for blending comedy with curiosity, weaving tales that touch on everything from science and philosophy to the strange habits of people and animals. He’s performed around the world, written books, and built a reputation for shows that make you laugh, think, and feel all at once.
He is many things. A multi award winning comedian, author, broadcaster, bibliomaniac and a populariser of scientific ideas. He is perhaps best known as the co-host and co-creator of the Sony Gold Award winning BBC Radio 4 series The Infinite Monkey Cage with Professor Brian Cox. As a stand-up Robin has toured the world and as an author he has written four acclaimed books, including Bibliomaniac, earned him the prestigious Booksellers Association Author of the Year award. His fifth, Normally Weird and Weirdly Normal is published in May 2025. He co-created the Cosmic Shambles Network and created the groundbreaking science variety night Nine Lessons and Carols for Curious People which has been adapted worldwide. He has received an Honorary Fellowship of UCL, an honorary doctorate from Royal Holloway College (University of London), and is a fellow of the British Science Association.
Visit: https://robinince.com/
One not to be missed - a night of intelligent comedy, unexpected tangents, and plenty of belly laughs — all for just £15.
A fully seated event.
Tickets: £15
Tuesday 30 Sept 2025, 19:30
Rochdale Town Hall, Town Hall, The Esplanade, Rochdale OL16 1AZ, UK
Common Wall International Mural Festival comes to Rochdale
Preview by Steve Cooke
Another exciting event emanating from our year as GM Town of Culture sees Rochdale set to become Greater Manchester’s most colourful canvas this September, as internationally acclaimed artists descend on the town from Sunday 7– 14 September for Common Walls, an international mural festival and arts event, bringing large-scale artworks to life across the town centre.
International artists on the line-up include Insane51, Onur, Smug1, SecaOne, AYLO, Epod, and Lei Mai. These artists have a combined social following of over a million and are known for their impactful murals worldwide.
From Sunday 7th September, ten town centre buildings will be transformed into dramatic landmarks, each telling a story inspired by Rochdale’s history, people and culture.
The festival invites us to watch the rare, large-scale murals being created in real time by the artists, who will be in town for the week. All murals will be within a 30-minute walk of each other, creating a unique open-air gallery in the heart of the town, a map will be available to guide visitors.
The festival culminates in a vibrant weekend celebration on Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 September, when we are invited to see the finished works as well as enjoy free family-friendly activities and attractions set to feature BMX stunt shows, street art workshops, a live graffiti jam, pop-up galleries, artist talks, live music, and more.
Lead artist and curator of ‘Common Walls’, Hayley Garner aka AYLO, who grew up in Rochdale said it will be special to bring her craft to Rochdale during its year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture: “I’ve painted murals all over the world, but nothing compares to painting in your hometown alongside artists I have looked up to and admired, especially during Rochdale’s year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture. I’m excited to see every day spaces transformed into landmarks of creativity and connection. What makes this even more special is welcoming world-class artists I’ve met on my journey, many of whom will be painting in Greater Manchester for the first time. They are amongst the best in the world and to bring them to my hometown is a real honour.”
Councillor Sue Smith, Cabinet Member for Communities and Co-Operation at Rochdale Borough Council said: “This exciting festival will help celebrate the creative spirit and heritage in Rochdale during our year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture showcasing local and internationally renowned artistic talent as well as some of the diverse networks of creative organisations in and around Rochdale and Greater Manchester. Building on the eye-catching artwork we already have and breathing new life into spaces, this will leave a permanent legacy in prominent locations around the town, creating an attraction that visitors and residents will enjoy for years to come.”
Following the success of 2019’s Uprising Mural Festival, which attracted over 9,000 visitors, organisers expect thousands to visit from across Greater Manchester and beyond — drawn in by world-class art, live events, and a unique cultural energy building in the borough.
Pete Courtie, Head of Culture and Placemaking at Rochdale Development Agency, said: “Common Walls is part of our vision for Rochdale to be a place where creativity, community and opportunity come together, reflecting the borough’s pioneering and cooperative approach to building an equitable economy. With ongoing investment into vibrant public spaces, our world-class cultural programming and community-led initiatives, Rochdale is driving its ambition to attract investment, support skilled people, and create a great place to live, visit and do business.”
Common Walls International Mural Festival is part of a spectacular line-up of festivals, live performances, exhibitions and art during Rochdale’s year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture 2025-26. The title, awarded by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, celebrates the town’s rich history, creativity, talent and diverse arts scene.
Find out more at www.rochdale.gov.uk/TownOfCulture
The Common Walls International Mural Festival will be curated by The Big Heart Projects, run by The Butterfly Effected, a community interest company that helps create inspiring art.
Rascally Duo find the TLC acoustics ideal!
Review by Dt Joe Dason
This Toad Lane concert at St Mary in the Baum was the 1,149th since taking over from the council in 2001. It must have set a record high temperature too at 29C in the heatwave.
These first-rate musicians have made several appearances here since forming Rascallity Duo as students; they find the acoustics ideal to project beautifully in many styles.
Soloist and teacher Kathryn Mason gained a first-class BMus and a master’s from the RNCM.
Alice Roberts graduated first-class from the joint course of Manchester University (where she gained awards for the highest mark in 2016 and 2018) and the RNCM (where in 2020 she became the first harpist to win the Gold Medal). Both are now freelance soloists and with a wide range of ensembles and genres. Variety certainly is the spice of their lives.
They began with their signature mesmeric duo sound in Looking at a Rainbow through a Dirty Window by Calum Stewart. Light jazz, minimalist, folk style melodic elements instantly conjured up an atmosphere conducive to meditation and reflection.
Kathryn’s solo set on her ‘lever harp’, included Clear Sky by Catrin Finch (the first Royal harpist, 2000). Although levers must be lifted by fingers to change notes rather than using the foot pedals of the chromatic concert harp, Kathryn demonstrated that it can still punch above its weight in terms of expression and tone.
The duo played two attractive numbers by Monika Stadler, a leading contemporary harpist.
Alice then played her own adaptation of Dido’s Lament by Purcell, the piquant Baroque harmonies contrasting with the modern styles. The jazz song My Romance by Richard Rodgers, the traditional Scottish Isle of Aigas, and Louis Armstrong’s What a Wonderful World, effectively demonstrated her wide repertoire.
The hypnotic spell was broken all too soon, as the Duo upped the ante with Noche de Fiesta by Alfredo Rolando Ortiz, an upbeat number for a triumphant finale.
The Queen’s Award-winning Toad Lane Concerts every Wednesday at 12.30pm at the Grade 1 listed church of St Mary in the Baum, Toad Lane, Rochdale, OL16 1DZ. Entrance fee is £6 cash. Contact 01706 648872 for further information.
Chetham’s International Piano summer school
Review by Steve Griffiths
Rochdale is lucky in that only a short train ride – Rochdale to Victoria - gave it access to one of the great events of the Summer; Chetham’s hosting of a gathering of some of the best pianists in the world at the Stoller Hall. All day and almost every day there were events, master classes and opportunities to hear great performers at the top of their game . And for , relatively , buttons.
For instance, imagine being able to hear the musical equivalent of Messi , Jaeden Izik-Dzurko, playing Bach for not very much. He won the equivalent to the European Cup , the Leeds International in 2024 and performed on Friday to an enthralled hall.
Or to go to hear the playing of a composer who is, relatively, unknown. Medtner is one of the three great Russian modern composers, along with Rachmaninov and Scriabin, but he is never on Classic or even Radio 3. Dina Parakhina played his romantic sketches for the young ,Op54, with no music in front of her. 35 minutes of pure heaven. Followed by an account of his life and work which illustrated the way in which the European world was turned upside down. From a cultured household in preRevolutionary Russia , through a move to France and then a suburban life in Hendon. Where you can visit his grave.
And after a brief drink at the Stoller Hall bar , basking in sunshine and glow, off to hear the Grieg’s Holberg by Simon Callaghan. A graduate of Chetham’s Simon combines a wonderful sonority with an engaging personality. Introducing and then elaborating on the works he played as befits the professor of piano at the Royal Northern.
Visit; https://stollerhall.com/
RECOMMENDED
Saturday, 30 August 2025
Every other Saturday. Join our free club and get creative with Lego.
For families with children aged 2 years and above. Lego club sessions are aimed at children aged 5–12 and their parents or carers. Duplo is available for younger children.
Each session, the children will be given a theme, followed by time to let their imaginations run wild and build.
Free, you can just come along.
11am - 12pm
Littleborough Library, Hare Hill Park, Littleborough OL15 9HE
Monday, 1 September 2025
1st Monday of every month. Discover new authors and discuss new books with other readers at our free, friendly and informal monthly meetings. Everyone's welcome.
For adults and teenagers,
Free, you can just turn up.
6pm - 7pm
Wardle Library, 448 Birch Road, Wardle, Rochdale OL12 9LH
Monday, 1 September 2025
First Monday of every month. Little Reads is a fun, interactive workshop using drama, dance, songs and play to explore children’s picture books.
This is a space for you and your little ones to have fun sharing a story, singing, moving and playing. Remember to join in yourself as your children love to copy you.
For families with children aged 2–6.
Free, you can just turn up.
10am - 10.30am
Rochdale Central Library, Number One Riverside, Smith Street, Rochdale OL16 1XU
Tuesday, 2 September 2025
Every other Tuesday during term time. Join Amy and Bookstart Bear for a fun session, especially for toddlers up to pre-school age and their parents or carers.
When you and your child come along to their first session of Bookstart Bear Club, they will receive their very own Bookstart passport for you to get stamped each time they come along to a session or visit the library. For every 6 stamps they get in their passport, they'll receive a certificate.
Free, booking required: please book a ticket for every child who is to attend. Accompanying adults will not need a ticket. See available sessions and book tickets through Eventbrite
If you or your child are not library members already, you can join when you come along to Bookstart Bear Club.
9.45am - 10.30am
Littleborough Library, Hare Hill Park, Littleborough OL15 9HE
Tuesday, 2 September 2025
First Steps Into Music - music classes
Every Tuesday during term time. Learn new songs together, play musical instruments, help your child develop communication skills and make new friends.
For babies and children aged 0–4 years, and their parents or carers
Free
Booking required: book your place through Wild Things
Time: 11am - 11.30am
Number One Riverside, Smith Street, Rochdale OL16 1XU
Tuesday, 2 September 2025
First Tuesday of every month. Come along to our monthly reading group, for beginners or advanced readers. Come for fun or for a chat.
For female adults and teenagers
Free, you can just turn up.
Email: LetsReadLadies@gmail.com
4.30pm - 5.30pm
Rochdale Central Library, Number One Riverside, Smith Street, Rochdale OL16 1XU
Tuesday, 2 September
Poetry Café
First Tuesday of every month
All poetry lovers welcome to read or listen
Free but please support the Café by purchasing a drink, delicious cakes are also available
Email: lizwhiteart@gmial.com
Visit: Seamus@onepoetvision.co.uk
Coffee on the Corner, Hare hill Road, Littleborough, OL15 9AB
Wednesday 3 September 2025
Toad Lane Concerts - Rochdale's Weekly Music at Lunchtime
This week we have - The Rodwell Howard Duo: Sam Rodwell guitar (RNCM) Emily Howard violin
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
Wednesday, 3 September 2025
Heywood Scribblers - Heywood Library
First Wednesday of every month. Free, friendly creative writing sessions. Poetry and story-writing workshops. All abilities welcome, whether you're new to writing or a seasoned writer.
For adults, families and teenagers.
Free, you can just drop in.
1.15pm - 3.15pm
Heywood Library, LCpl Stephen Shaw MC Way, Heywood OL10 1LW
celebrating creative arts and artists - an oasis of positivity supporting individual and community wellbeing.