In a vibrant showcase of local creativity, the Oldham Coliseum is set to host Census, an innovative production by the award-winning duo Malandra Jacks. This theatrical experience serves as a profound celebration of communities that are seldom represented on stage, offering audiences a heartfelt glimpse into the lives and stories of working-class neighbourhoods.
A Deep Dive into Community Narratives
Census is more than just a play; it is a dynamic fusion of theatre and time capsule, designed to capture the essence of everyday life. Through spellbinding projections and authentic voices gathered from community workshops, Malandra Jacks invites you on a journey that explores shared memories, laughter, and the quiet moments that define a community. The performance is described as funny, intimate, and defiant, acting as a love letter to working-class cultures and a powerful reminder of the stories we carry with us.
Event Details and Accessibility
Scheduled for Thursday, March 5, 2026, at 7.15pm, tickets are priced at £15, with concessions available for £12. The show has an age guidance of 12+, with parental discretion advised due to content warnings that include discussions on class, economic inequality, poverty, mental health topics such as anxiety and depression, and mild language. The venue is Billingtons, located at 3 Ascroft Street in Oldham.
In addition to the main performance, Malandra Jacks will be conducting a workshop titled CENSUS: A Community Meeting at The CartShaft in Shaw, Oldham, on Tuesday, February 24, at 10.30am. Attendees can book both the performance and workshop together to enjoy a 10% discount, with automatic calculations available during online checkout.
Rochdale's Creative Scene: Spoken Word and Music
Meanwhile, Rochdale is buzzing with artistic energy, featuring events like Spoken Word and Young Voices at The Yard in Heywood. Hosted by Rochdale’s Poet Laureate Sammy Weaver, this evening of poetry and spoken word is part of the Rochdale Creates Town of Culture programme. It aims to spotlight young local talents, including performances by Alende Amisi, Reece Williams, and the Darnhill Young Poets, with youth workers ensuring a safe and inclusive environment.
This free event, open to young people and families, is delivered in partnership with Rochdale Youth Services, Rochdale Libraries, and other local organisations, funded by Arts Council England. It encourages participation and creativity, offering tips from performers and a vibrant atmosphere for all attendees.
Classical Music and Family Fun
For music enthusiasts, the Toad Lane Concerts continue to be a highlight in Rochdale, with the recent performance by The Roth Guitar Trio receiving high praise. Held every Wednesday at St Mary in the Baum, these concerts offer a diverse programme from Renaissance pieces to contemporary works, with an entrance fee of £6. The series, which has been running since 2001, was honoured with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2020.
Family-friendly activities are also on offer, such as the Lego Club at Littleborough Library, providing free sessions for children aged 2 and above to engage in creative building. Additionally, Manchester’s HOME theatre presents The Lightning Thief - The Percy Jackson Musical, featuring RuPaul’s Drag Race UK champion Danny Beard, from February 11 to 21, promising an epic adventure for all ages.
These events collectively underscore the rich cultural tapestry of Greater Manchester, fostering community engagement and artistic expression across the region.
