Rochdale's cultural landscape is set to flourish throughout the year with a diverse programme of events spanning music, theatre, and community-focused arts. From historic churches to modern civic venues, the borough offers rich experiences for residents and visitors alike.
St Edmund's Church: A Historic Venue for Varied Performances
St Edmund's Church, an architectural gem built in 1870 by industrialist Albert Hudson Royds, launches its annual events with a dynamic schedule. The venue, noted for its Gothic ceiling and Masonic imagery, will host performances that blend traditional and contemporary arts.
Musical Highlights at St Edmund's
The season begins on Saturday, March 14, with the Dave Egerton Band, a Manchester-based swing ensemble covering music from the 1920s to present day. This evening promises lively entertainment starting at 7pm.
Classical music enthusiasts can look forward to a special performance on Saturday, March 21, at 7.30pm. The Manchester Chamber Choir and Manchester Baroque Orchestra will present Handel's "Dixit Dominus," marking its first performance in Rochdale.
Theatrical Production in April
In April, live theatre comes to the church with This My Theatre's production of Charlotte Brontë's Jane Eyre. This Sussex-based company specialises in staging performances in heritage buildings, particularly churches and cathedrals. The show is scheduled for Friday, April 17, at 7pm.
Later in the year, the Tennessee Honeys are expected to return with a gin festival, though organisers note this event is still in the planning stages.
Heywood Civic Hosts Bach Reimagined
The refurbished Heywood Civic presents an innovative performance titled Bach Reimagined on March 5 at 7.30pm. This show combines athletic dance with heavy metal cello music performed by Canadian cellist Raphael Weinroth Browne.
The production explores Johann Sebastian Bach's belief in music as a spiritual connection while referencing scientific discoveries from his era, such as those by Isaac Newton. The venue offers an accessible viewing platform and is wheelchair and pram friendly.
Flexible Pricing Model
Heywood Civic introduces a unique pricing structure for this event:
- £15: Standard fair pricing
- £13: Reduced rate for those in need
- £17: Higher price for patrons wishing to support the programme
Attendees can select their preferred price at checkout.
Toad Lane Concerts: Weekly Musical Excellence
The Toad Lane Concerts at St Mary in the Baum continue their long-standing tradition with the 1,170th performance since taking over from the council in 2001. These weekly concerts occur every Wednesday at 12.30pm at the Grade I listed church.
Jonathan Ellis's Spellbinding Performance
Recent concerts featured pianist Jonathan Ellis, who delivered a captivating programme celebrating the Romantic period. His performance included:
- Beethoven's Sonata Op. 7 in E flat
- Edward MacDowell's "Sea Pieces"
- Chopin's Waltzes Op. 70/1 and Op. 69/2
- Brahms' Rhapsody Op. 79/2 in G minor
Ellis, who began piano studies at age three and graduated from the RNCM and Manchester University, regularly works with opera companies and musical charities like "Music in Hospitals."
The concerts charge an entrance fee of £6, with doors opening at 12pm. Further information is available by contacting 01706 648872.
M6 Theatre Company's Educational Film: The Incident
Addressing crucial social issues, M6 Theatre Company has produced The Incident, a film aimed at educating young people about domestic abuse awareness. With 8.0% of adults experiencing domestic abuse annually, this resource targets teenagers to recognise signs of unhealthy relationships.
Film Production and Educational Approach
The film follows characters Blake (Noah Fox) and Erin (Tia Larsen) as their relationship develops. Originally a school production, it has been adapted into a film format to reach wider audiences. Key features include:
- Pause points for classroom discussions
- Accompanying facilitator notes for teachers
- Professional cinematography by Mark Farrimond showcasing Rochdale locations
M6 Theatre will offer Continuing Professional Development (CPD) for teachers on using the resource effectively. The digital format allows broader distribution when live tours are not feasible.
Community and Library Events
Beyond performances, Rochdale offers regular community activities:
- Themed Lego Club: Held at Wardle Library on the first two Saturdays monthly, for children aged four and over. Free entry from 10am to 12pm.
- Book Club: Monthly meetings at Junction Library on the second Monday, from 2pm to 3pm, offering casual discussions about books.
- Weekly Music Concerts: Continuing the Toad Lane tradition with varied performers like the Rascallity Harp Duo.
These events collectively enhance Rochdale's cultural vitality, supporting individual wellbeing and community cohesion through diverse artistic expressions.
