Rochdale Comedy Festival to Debut in Autumn with Star-Studded Lineup

Strategic Insights -

Rochdale Borough Council and UK Government have announced the launch of the Rochdale Comedy Festival, set to take place from September 26 to October 5, 2025, in venues across the borough. The festival will feature established comedians from television and radio, alongside rising stars, including Robin Ince, Mick Miller, Tez Ilyas, and Lou Conran. The event is part of Rochdale's year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture 2025-26, supported by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, Arts Council England, Rochdale Borough Council, and Rochdale Development Agency.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Rochdale Comedy Festival will feature a diverse lineup of comedians, including TV and radio personalities, and rising stars, such as Robin Ince, Mick Miller, Tez Ilyas, and Lou Conran.
  • The festival will take place over 10 days, from September 26 to October 5, 2025, in various venues across the borough of Rochdale.
  • Comedians like Brennan Reece, star of BBC1's Live at the Apollo, and Lubna Kerr, a Scottish observational comic, will make their Rochdale debut along with established names like English comedian of the year Rob Mullholland.
  • The festival will offer comedy courses for aspiring comedians, hosted by Dave Williams from the legendary comedy club The Frog and Bucket.
  • Councillor Sue Smith, cabinet member for communities and co-operation at Rochdale Borough Council, has expressed excitement about the festival, highlighting the community's appetite for comedy.
  • The event is supported by Your Trust, the Rochdale Business Improvement District (BID), and local authorities.

Statistics:

  • The festival will run for 10 days, from September 26 to October 5, 2025.
  • Over 20 comedians from various backgrounds will perform, including TV and radio stars, and rising new talent.
  • The festival is part of Rochdale's year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture 2025-26, a title awarded by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority.
  • The festival is supported by various organizations, including Your Trust, the Rochdale Business Improvement District (BID), and local authorities.

Sources:

  • Rochdale Borough Council
  • UK Government
  • BBC Radio 4
  • BBC Radio 4 Extra
  • Rolling Stone UK
  • Chortle
  • The Frog and Bucket
  • Arts Council England
  • Rochdale Borough Council
  • Rochdale Development Agency
  • Greater Manchester Combined Authority