Stage Adaptation of 'I, Daniel Blake' Arrives in Manchester
I, Daniel Blake, a powerful stage adaptation of the acclaimed Ken Loach film, is set to premiere at HOME in Manchester. Produced by Northern Stage in collaboration with Leeds Playhouse Traditional Play Theatre, this production brings to life the poignant story of Dan, a Geordie carpenter recovering from a heart attack, and Katie, a mother seeking a fresh start in a council house with her children.
This adaptation, crafted by Dave Johns who originally portrayed Daniel Blake in the award-winning 2016 film, offers a stark glimpse into the realities of poverty in the UK. With over 14.3 million people living in poverty according to the Joseph Rowntree Foundation 2025 Poverty Report, the narrative transcends fiction to reflect urgent social issues.
The show runs from Tuesday, April 21 to Saturday, April 25, at HOME, located at 2 Tony Wilson Place, Manchester M15 4FN. Tickets can be booked through the Box Office at 0161 200 1500.
Lunchtime Concert at Rochdale Parish Church
On Saturday, April 11, 2026, at 12 noon, Rochdale Parish Church hosts a lunchtime concert featuring baritone Gabriel Rhodes and pianist Evan Watkinson. Gabriel, a 19-year-old from Huddersfield and recipient of The Hardcastle Scholarship, will perform alongside Evan, an 18-year-old piano student from Doncaster. The concert lasts approximately 50 minutes, with doors opening at 11:30 AM. Admission is £6, including refreshments, and tickets are available by contacting Jill at 01706 639162 or via email at stchadschurch@outlook.com.
Disabled-Led Comedy Night at Aviva Studios
Crippled With Laughter, a groundbreaking disabled-led comedy event, takes place at The Social, Aviva Studios in Manchester. Curated and hosted by Wheels and the Legman, this show features comedians Dawn Bailey, Mike Keenan, Anthony Johnston, Paul Campbell, and Jenny Hart. It aims to challenge stereotypes and offer humour from unique perspectives. Scheduled for April 30 and May 26, 2026, the event is for ages 14 and above, with accessibility features including wheelchair access and BSL interpreting. Tickets are free but require pre-booking.
New Dance Production 'It's A Sin' by Rambert
Rambert, in partnership with Factory International, is developing It's A Sin, a major new dance work inspired by the Channel 4 series. Executive produced by Russell T Davies with music by Pet Shop Boys, this production will premiere at Aviva Studios in Manchester. Choreographed by Benoit Swan Pouffer, it explores themes of queer life and the HIV/AIDS crisis through contemporary dance. Full details, including dates and casting, will be announced later this year.
Additional Community Events in Rochdale
Several community events are scheduled in Rochdale during April:
- Sister Act at Hope Mill Theatre from April 9 to 19, a musical comedy based on the 1992 film.
- Toad Lane Concerts on April 8 at St Mary in the Baum, featuring Harmony Choir.
- Easter holiday activities at Rochdale Central Library, Alkrington Library, and Heywood Library, including games and science clubs.
- A bug hotel workshop at Rochdale Pioneers Museum on April 10, and a cuckoo clock craft session at Littleborough Library.
- An open studio event at Ebor Studio on April 11, showcasing local artists and exhibitions.
These events highlight the vibrant cultural and community arts scene in Greater Manchester, offering diverse opportunities for engagement and entertainment.
