Music fans across the North West have a major date to circle in their 2026 calendars, as pioneering synth-pop group Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark (OMD) have announced a headline show at Rochdale Town Hall Square. The event, set for Friday 7 August 2026, will see the band return to a town with deep roots in their history, supported by iconic special guests.
A Triumphant Return to Musical Roots
The concert marks a significant homecoming for the influential duo. In 1979, OMD famously recorded their debut single, 'Electricity', at Cargo Studios in Rochdale. This performance represents a full-circle moment, bringing their acclaimed 'Summer of Hits' tour back to where an important chapter began.
With a career spanning over four decades, 40 million records sold worldwide, and 18 Top 40 hits, OMD remain one of Britain's most beloved pop acts. Audiences can expect a night packed with genre-defining anthems like 'Enola Gay', 'Maid of Orleans', and 'If You Leave', showcasing the energy and synth-driven brilliance of their live performances.
An Iconic Support Line-Up
Joining OMD for this special night are two acts that also share a connection with Rochdale's rich musical tapestry. The legendary Peter Hook and The Light, fronted by the Joy Division and New Order co-founder, will perform a career-spanning set. Hooky also recorded at the town's Cargo Studios, cementing Rochdale's role in the post-punk and electronic scene.
Opening the evening will be Manchester's pioneering post-punk and funk band, A Certain Ratio. Formed in the late 1970s and signed to Factory Records, they too have history at Cargo Studios and are celebrated for fusing punk energy with funk and soul rhythms.
Part of Rochdale's Cultural Celebration
The show is staged in partnership with Rochdale Borough Council and the Rochdale Development Agency. It forms a key part of the 'Rochdale Music Stories' campaign, launched to highlight the borough's longstanding influence on British music during its year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture.
Councillor Sue Smith, cabinet member for communities and co-operation, expressed her excitement: "We're so excited to welcome these trailblazing bands for what will be an amazing evening packed with iconic hits. Our beautifully restored town hall square is a fabulous location... I urge you to book your tickets and bring your dancing shoes in August!"
The event will be followed on Saturday by the Rochdale Feel Good Festival, making for a spectacular weekend of music and culture.
Tickets, priced at £55 plus booking fee, are on sale now via quaytickets.com and rochdale.gov.uk/YourEvents. The concert will take place at the recently refurbished Rochdale Town Hall Square, promising a memorable night at one of the north's most spectacular heritage venues.
