FAB Youth Arts Festival Set to Illuminate Rochdale with Young Talent
The vibrant town of Rochdale is preparing to host the inaugural FAB Youth Arts Festival, a dynamic celebration placing young creativity at its core. Scheduled for Friday, March 27, and Saturday, March 28, this event promises a packed programme of artistic expressions designed entirely by and for young people.
A Festival Born from Youth Vision
FAB, an acronym representing freedom, art, and belonging, has been meticulously crafted by over 100 local young individuals, who have shaped everything from its name to its colourful logo. This grassroots approach ensures the festival authentically reflects the voices and aspirations of Rochdale's youth community.
Diverse Line-Up of Creative Activities
Attendees can look forward to an eclectic mix of performances and exhibitions, including theatre productions by M6 Theatre, live music, dance routines, poetry readings, circus acts by Skylight Circus Arts Youth Circus, and e-gaming events. The festival will also feature mural creations, a carnival parade, and an outdoor art exhibition at the Square Gallery in front of Rochdale Town Hall.
Highlight Attractions and Mentorship Opportunities
One of the standout events involves the creation of a massive new mural on the side of the Regal Moon building in Rochdale town centre. Esteemed mural artist Hayley Garner, also known as Aylo, who curated last year's Common Walls International Mural Festival, will lead this project. Garner will mentor young artists working alongside her, providing invaluable hands-on experience.
Additional murals will be developed on Yorkshire Street, with young creators receiving guidance from Aylo. The festival will also host a Teenage Market, offering a platform for young entrepreneurs to showcase their products and talents.
Community and Sponsorship Support
The festival's main sponsor, Hopwood Hall College, will organise an e-gaming event on Saturday, emphasising their commitment to youth engagement. Principal and Chief Executive Julia Heap OBE expressed pride in supporting the festival, noting it brings families together and highlights the remarkable creativity of young people across the borough.
Councillor Sue Smith, cabinet member for communities and co-operation at Rochdale Borough Council, praised the festival as an inspiring platform for young people to showcase their amazing creativity. She highlighted it as a perfect culmination to Rochdale's year in the cultural spotlight, offering numerous free creative activities.
Broader Cultural Context and Accessibility
This festival aligns with Rochdale's designation as the Greater Manchester Town of Culture for 2025-26, an award that celebrates the town's rich history, creativity, talent, and diverse arts scene. Supported by the government's Flexible Funds, Hopwood Hall College, Greater Manchester Combined Authority, and Arts Council England, the event underscores a collective effort to foster cultural ambition.
All festival events are free to attend, ensuring broad accessibility for the community. For full details and the latest line-up, interested individuals can visit the official Rochdale Creates website and follow related social media channels.
