On Air Now

Music Mix

8:00pm - 10:00pm

Now Playing

U2

I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For

Listen Live Watch

Rochdale comedy festival closes as a big hit in the borough with laughter, community and rising talent

Monday, 6 October 2025 23:46

By David Murphy

Lou Conran on stage in Middleton. Credit: David Murphy / Roch Valley Radio

The town’s first full-scale comedy festival has drawn to a close after ten days of shows across Rochdale, bringing together established performers, newcomers and audiences from across the region and beyond.

Over 35 comedians took to stages in 14 venues, from Middleton’s Engine House to theatres and halls in Littleborough, Heywood, Milnrow and Rochdale town centre. With modest ticket pricing, organisers say they succeeded in removing barriers and attracting people from Preston, Stoke, Greater Manchester, East Lancashire and even the United States.

One of the standout nights was in Middleton on 4 October, where Storm Amy threatened to wash out the event, but instead brought in a packed crowd. “I fully thought I’d be shouting into the abyss this evening,” said Alex Mitchell after his set speaking to Roch Valley Radio. “But people came out in the storm and made the effort. It’s been brilliant.” 

Mitchell, a former Britain’s Got Talent finalist, encouraged a light‑hearted, inclusive atmosphere: “Bring your nan to comedy, I say.” 

The festival also prioritised mental health and new voices in comedy. Two workshops were held earlier in the month to help emerging acts build resilience and stage skills. These will culminate in a “pay what you want” showcase on Tuesday 7 October at Milnrow Cricket Club, where newcomers will share the bill with seasoned comedians.

The event was curated by Ace Lips Comedy and generously supported by:

  • Rochdale Borough Council
  • Rochdale Development Agency (RDA)
  • Rochdale BID Team
  • Arts Council England
  • Touchstones Rochdale
  • Rochdale Town Hall
  • The Mayor of Rochdale, Councillor Janet Emsley
  • HLN Marketing

Organisers say planning is already underway for the next festival, following overwhelmingly positive feedback and strong turnout across the borough.

Share

Donate to Roch Valley Radio

 

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something happening in our Borough?

Let us know by emailing newsdesk@rochvalleyradio.com

All contact will be treated in confidence.

More from Local News

Comments

Add a comment

Log in to the club or enter your details below.

Donate to Roch Valley Radio

 

Recently Played

Newsletter

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated.

   

Coming up next On Air

  • Music Mix

    8:00pm - 10:00pm

    Roch Valley Radio is with you 24/7 with our great mix of music!

  • Monday Gospel

    10:00pm - Midnight

    with Mary Walsh bring you a wide-ranging gospel music from all over the world.

  • After Hours

    Midnight - 2:00am

    For the night owls, night workers and everyone still going while the rest of the town sleeps. Music, chat and company after dark.

  • Wide Awake Club

    2:00am - 5:00am

    For those who find themselves awake at 3am more often than they’d like. Calm music, understanding voices and quiet company.

  • Up Before the Alarm

    5:00am - 7:00am

    for early starters, commuters and anyone already on their second brew. Livelier music and new voices warming things up before breakfast.

  • Tuesday Breakfast

    7:00am - 10:00am

    getting you out of bed and to work and school with great music and headlines.

Roch Valley Radio is a not-for-profit radio station serving Bury and Rochdale including the surrounding areas on DAB, your Smart Speakers and Online.

© Copyright 2026 Roch Valley Radio CIC. Powered by Aiir.