6 minute read
What's On In The Arts, by Steve Cooke
As always, there is plenty of arts and culture to look forward to in and around Rochdale in the coming months. Here's just a taster...
ART
As we continue to celebrate our flourishing local artist scene the spotlight falls Ebor Studio, Littleborough.
Artist and director, Kara Lyons, was the guest speaker at the latest FRAG [Friends of Rochdale Art Gallery] meeting, giving a fascinating illustrated talk on the evolution of Ebor Studio in Littleborough. A story of creative vision, courage, and sheer hard graft.
Beginning as a 4-storey Victorian cotton mill, the Ebor Mill was semi derelict about 15 years ago when Kara and her husband decided to ‘repurpose’ it.
It has evolved to accommodate a community of 17 professional painters, sculptors, sound artists, dress designers, furniture makers, video artists, ceramicists, glass makers, performers, and photographers; and houses Gallery FRANK. It now contributes to the cultural life of the local community and beyond with contemporary exhibitions and events, including workshops and classesvisit: www.eborstudio.co.uk
As FRAG’S Dr Joe Dawson commented: "A thrilling local powerhouse and with a recent £30K Arts Council Grant for support, let’s hope that it continues to flourish".
FRAG’S next meeting, Thursday 13th July will be a follow-up visit to the Ebor Studio Littleborough from 13:00.
Contacts: Chair Jenny Buckley 01706 358686 or Touchstones 01706 924492
Touchstones Art Gallery
Prior to the 12th August closure for refurbishment [for about 18 months] we have two excellent exhibitions to enjoy.
Helene Appel: Among Trees, Among Sand Grains until 12 August in Gallery 3 & 4.
Helene Appel creates images that straddle the threshold between realism, sculpture, and abstraction. Using paints and different techniques allows the close emulation of each individual subject she paints.
Depicting ordinary objects from everyday life, her work sees the inherent aesthetic qualities of trees, seashores, fishing nets, headlights, and loose folds of fabric. Whilst never avoiding the less pleasant details of domestic life, we may also encounter discarded vegetable peelings ready to be thrown onto the compost pile or a kitchen sink full to the brim of murky washing up water.
This exhibition will feature key works from Appel’s career alongside a new series of paintings inspired by the streets of Rochdale.
Shezad Dawood: Leviathan: From the Forest to the Sea on until 12 August in Gallery 1 & 2
The latest episode in Shezad Dawood’s epic film series, Leviathan Cycle, which considers some of the urgent issues of our time such as climate change. Episode 8 was developed remotely in collaboration with Guarani scriptwriters, directors, and activists.
Set in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest – one of the most ecologically diverse and threatened biomes on earth –Episode 8 blends indigenous cosmology with fictional narrative, shot footage and animation, to chart a spiritual and ecological journey along the age-old Guarani path that links the forest to the sea.
Touchstones Rochdale, The Esplanade, Rochdale OL16 1AQ Contact Touchstones Rochdale: 01706 924492
MUSIC
Calling Planet Earth at the Middleton Arena
A new romantic symphony that goes on a journey through one of the greatest musical eras of all time - the electrifying '80s. Featuring songs from legendary artists such as Duran Duran, Spandau Ballet, The Human League, Ultravox, Tears for Fears, Depeche Mode, OMD, Japan and many more. Performed by an incredible live band with impressive symphonic arrangements combined with stunning vocals, this is the must-see show that simply defines a decade.
Middleton Arena, Saturday 22nd July, 7.30pm Visit: yourtrustrochdale.co.uk/whats-on/events
Toad Lane Concerts
The Toad Lane Concerts series (TLC) is Rochdale’s weekly 'music at lunchtime', every Wednesday at 12:30.
The non-profit voluntary setup is based at the Grade 1-listed St Mary in the Baum Church, Rochdale, OL16 1DZ. The name Toad Lane Concerts reflects the proximity of the original Rochdale Pioneers Co-op shop and museum.
TLC was awarded the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2020. It provides a platform for singers and instrumentalists of all ages. Distinguished pros also pop in from time to time – because of the friendly atmosphere and superb acoustics and there is an 'eclectic mix' in programmes.
For example, the month of June brought the Telemann Baroque Ensemble with oboe and bassoon soloists, string quartet and harpsichord; local soprano Louise Taylor soprano; solo piano recitalist Jonathan Ellis piano; and international artists Johanna Leung clarinet (Hong Kong & RNCM) and Ashley Lum piano (UCSI Malaysia & RNCM). Each month is a bumper month of variety and excellence.
Granny’s Attic presented by Littleborough Art Festival and English Folk Expo
With exceptional musicianship and boundless energy, folk trio Granny’s Attic are going from strength to strength. They are much loved by audiences up and down the country.
The trio have been heralded for their lively performances and skilled delivery of traditional material, playing with energy and their own inimitable style. Described by Folk Radio as "one of the most exciting and accomplished English folk acts on the scene right now", this outstanding trio can hold audiences in the palm of their hand.
Friday 14th July, Door time: 7:00pm, Start time: 7:30pm All ages (under 14s must be accompanied by an adult)
Littleborough United Reformed Church, 3 Coleridge Drive, Littleborough. Visit: www.wegottickets.com/event/585301
COMEDY
The Old Courtroom Comedy Night
Local promoters Ace Lips Events are bringing top class live comedy to our doorstep with live monthly comedy at the Old Court Room, above the Flying Horse Hotel on Packer Street Rochdale. A chance to see some comedians on the circuit. Visit: www.acelipsevents.co.uk
Jimmy Cricket
Our very own comedy icon will be appearing at the Lyndene Hotel in Blackpool, on the first Wednesday of the month, all through the summer and autumn this year, 5th July - 6th December. He will also be doing a Meet and Greet after shows and signing copies his excellent book Memoirs of an Irish Comedian – Come ‘ere There’s More -The Jimmy Cricket Story. Visit: www.jimmycricket.co.uk
Steve Cooke - All Across The Arts
Celebrating creative arts and artists
