Brilliant notion! Madeleine chosen to oversee exciting Rochdale festival
Madeleine is set to play a pivotal role in delivering an exciting 6-day festival that will coincide with the official reopening of Rochdale Town Hall. The festival, which will take place from Monday, 4 March 2024 to Saturday, 9 March 2024, will showcase creativity, innovation, and performance under the themes of imagine, create, discover.
With a wealth of experience in art and culture, particularly in the north of England and London, Madeleine has directed over 20 productions in theatre. Notable works include ‘Cyclops’, a production staged in London and Doncaster as part of the National Theatre’s ‘Public Acts’ initiative. She was also involved in the establishment of Assemble Fest in Hull, a unique performance festival held in unconventional spaces throughout the city. Additionally, Madeleine has contributed to events at Wow Festival in Hull and the Edinburgh Festival.
Having trained at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School and previously served as a resident assistant director at West Yorkshire Playhouse, Madeleine is thrilled about the opportunity to be involved in the new Rochdale event. She expressed her inspiration upon visiting Rochdale for the first time, noting the town’s vibrant atmosphere, rich history, and untapped potential. Madeleine believes that the Rochdale Borough Ideas Festival and the reopening of the town hall are culturally significant events that should be shared with a wider audience. She is excited to curate a diverse lineup of ideas and innovation for the festival.
Councillor Janet Emsley, the council’s cabinet member for equity, safety, and reform, praised Madeleine’s involvement in the festival. Councillor Emsley believes that Madeleine’s extensive experience, willingness to push boundaries, and creative vision will greatly contribute to elevating the borough’s profile in the arts, culture, and events scene across the UK.
The festival lineup, which will encompass visual arts, music, electrifying live performances, thought-provoking talks, interactive installations, and more, will soon be announced. The festival aims to celebrate originality and imagination, drawing inspiration from the borough’s rich heritage while embracing a forward-thinking approach. Attendees can expect a mix of hands-on and digital programming, with all events being free to attend.
The newly restored Rochdale Town Hall, funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund and Rochdale Borough Council, will be one of the festival’s main venues.
