A Festive Feast of Music and Theatre in Rochdale
The Rochdale area is set to come alive this festive season with an exciting programme of arts and cultural events, promising entertainment for all tastes. From magical choral performances and world-class piano recitals to traditional family pantomimes with a cheeky adult twist, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Cantare Ladies Choir: Sounds of Christmas
Experience a magical evening of exceptional music as the Cantare Ladies Choir presents their Sounds of Christmas concert at Rochdale Town Hall. This event, scheduled for Sunday, 7 December 2025 at 6:30pm, promises to be filled with passion, energy, and festive cheer.
The superb local choir, originally founded in 1982 as the Debrose Choir, boasts a diverse and exciting repertoire. Their programme spans pop standards, songs from musicals, and classical choral pieces, guaranteed to inspire and entertain. To make the occasion even more special, attendees can enjoy a complimentary glass of mulled wine on arrival, with non-alcoholic options also available.
The choir is composed of women of all ages and from all walks of life, united by a love of singing. Tickets for this festive highlight start from just £5.
Star Pianist Dazzles at Toad Lane Concerts
Rochdale's weekly Toad Lane Concerts recently hosted a stunning performance by prize-winning pianist Madeleine Brown. The Cambridge University Concerto competition and RNCM gold medal winner captivated the audience with a marvellous recital at St Mary in the Baum.
Described by distinguished pianist Peter Donohue as having "the potential to become a major voice in the classical music world," Madeleine presented a fascinating programme. It featured Haydn's Variations in F minor, Janacek's emotionally charged Sonata of 1905, Debussy's impressionistic Preludes, and culminated with Franck's monumental Prelude, Chorale and Fugue.
Critics praised her brilliance at taking risks, her exquisite soft playing, and the power of her crescendos, all delivered from memory on an unfamiliar heritage piano. These award-winning concerts continue every Wednesday at 12:30pm. The entrance fee is £6 cash.
Family Fun with Middleton's Aladdin Panto
This year's pantomime at Middleton Arena is the ever-popular Aladdin, running from Tuesday, 25 November to Monday, 29 December 2025. The production features a star-studded cast including Strictly Come Dancing's Neil Jones as the evil Abanazar and CBBC's Chris Johnson as Billy.
Audiences can join Aladdin, his mother Dame Betty, and his brother Billy on a magical adventure to defeat Abanazar. The show promises great songs, dazzling dance routines, stunning scenery, and amazing special effects, making it an unforgettable experience for children and adults alike. Tickets start from £16.50.
For those seeking a more risqué night out, a special adults-only (18+) performance will take place on Friday, 12 December 2025 at 8pm. This one-off event features a naughty twist on the classic tale, packed with innuendos and risqué humour. Tickets for this unique experience start from £25.
With such a vibrant array of performances on offer, Rochdale is the place to be for exceptional arts and culture this festive season.
