Cantare Choir Seeks New Singers for Exciting Summer Concert

The wonderful Cantare Ladies Choir, originally founded in 1982 as the Debrose Choir and renamed in 2009, is looking to attract more singers this year. The choir includes women of all ages and backgrounds, with a firm policy of “no superstars, just people who love to sing and who want to do it well.” Their repertoire ranges from pop standards and show tunes to classical and contemporary choral pieces.

Choir practices are held on Wednesday evenings from 7:30 to 9:30 at Norden Methodist Church, and are described as relaxed and fun. No auditions are required, and women of all ages are welcome to join. For more information, visit their website.

The choir’s next concert will take place on July 4 at 7pm at Rochdale Unitarian Church on Clover Street. The programme will feature favourite pieces chosen by choir members to celebrate several significant birthdays this year. Tickets are priced at £13 and include hot drinks and birthday cake.

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Admirable Clarinet and Piano Duo at TLC

Johanna Shu Ting Leung, a fine clarinettist who gained her master’s at the RNCM, has performed internationally in Reykjavik, Keflavik, Berlin, England, and Hong Kong. She is active in Northwest England, giving solo and chamber performances, and has participated in masterclasses with world-class musicians. She teaches saxophone and clarinet at Bolton Music Service and Stonyhurst College.

She teamed up with collaborative pianist Chichi Li, who earned a master’s in piano accompaniment from the RNCM with Distinction in 2025. Li has performed at venues including Wigmore Hall and provides accompaniment support for the RNCM and the University of Sheffield.

Their duo recital featured works by Nina Rota and Brahms, as well as a delightful arrangement of Chopin’s Etude Op.10 No.3. The Toad Lane Concerts continue every Wednesday at 12:30pm at St Mary in the Baum, Rochdale. Entrance fee is £6.

Octagon Bolton Launches Exciting 2026/27 Season

The Octagon’s new season promises a packed programme of entertainment. Artistic director Lottie Wakeham announced productions including “Murder for Two” (June 5-27), “The Trials” by Dawn King (August 20-22), and the 30th anniversary production of “East is East” (September 4-October 3). Other highlights include “Calendar Girls the Musical” (October 8-31) and the festive show “Cinderella: A Fairytale” (November 20, 2026 – January 9, 2027).

Romeo and Juliet runs from February 4-27, 2027. The Bolton Comedy Festival (July 8-21, 2026) will feature comedians including Ed Byrne and Lucy Porter. Visit the Octagon website for more information.

Solve-Along-A-Murder-She-Wrote at Heywood Civic

The cult hit event comes to Heywood Civic on May 29 at 7:30pm, featuring an interactive screening of the classic episode “A Fashionable Way to Die.” Hosted by super-fan Tim Benzie, the evening includes games, prizes, and audience participation. Tickets are pay-what-you-can: Standard £21, Lower £15.75, Higher £23.10. Age recommendation 16+.