Islamic Culture Takeover

As part of the Islamic Art and Culture programming presented by the Culture Co-op, we welcome you to an afternoon of Islamic arts and crafts drop-in activity followed by evening of food, uplifting poetry, song and percussion inspired by South Asian storytelling and rhythms.

Creative Workshops
with Culture Co-op
3pm – 6pm. No need to book, just drop by!
Saba Rifat leads Sacred Geometry, Arabic Calligraphy and Arabesque workshops
for adults and children of all age groups.

Community Meal
with Culture Co-op
6pm – 7pm
Before the show, join us for a community meal. Book a ticket to the show to reserve a seat!

Songs and Stories
with Culture Co-op
7pm – 8pm. Book a ticket below.
3 incredible artists bring you an evening of songs and stories.

Shahbaz Hussain is one of Europe’s finest tabla players and
is based in his hometown of Rochdale.

Elmi Ali is a writer, director and facilitator based in Manchester.
He writes poetry, short fiction and for the stage.

786AM writes about music and her various life experiences.
Her debut single “Peace Train” is an entirely “Made In Manchester” record.

Come along any time from 3pm for the creative workshops (no need to book) but please do book a ticket to a reserve a seat for the food from 6pm and the evening’s entertainment from 7pm!

Culture Co-op are a new network of artists, cultural organisations, and local residents across Rochdale Borough. They support communities to decide what counts as art and culture, where it happens, who makes it, and who experiences it.

The FestiDale is part of Local Exchange, the Royal Exchange Theatre’s ambitious long-term programme co-curated with ambassadors and champions in communities across Greater Manchester. This is what has been said about past festivals…

“Amazing experience showcasing the community. Loved it.”

“We need these stories told in the communities that need to talk about them”

“It brought people in who may never seen theatre. Told stories never heard.”