Rochdale Comedy Festival

Rochdale Gets Ready to Laugh: Ace Lips Comedy Curates a Stellar Festival Debut.

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Rochdale is about to become the comedy capital of Greater Manchester, thanks to the inaugural Rochdale Comedy Festival, running from 26 September to 5 October 2025. At the heart of this ten-day laugh-a-thon is Ace Lips Comedy, the local powerhouse behind the festival’s vibrant programming.

Here’s how they’ve pulled it all together:

 A Line-Up That Balances Legends and Rising Stars

Ace Lips Comedy has hand-picked a dazzling mix of talent:

• Robin Ince, co-creator of BBC Radio 4’s The Infinite Monkey Cage

• Mick Miller, a Liverpool comedy legend

• Tez Ilyas, known for Man Like Mobeen and The Tez O’Clock Show

• Lou Conran, BBC Radio 4 Extra host and tour support for Sarah Millican

• Brennan Reece, Live at the Apollo star and Edinburgh Best Newcomer nominee

They’ve also spotlighted fresh faces like:

• Lubna Kerr, Scottish observational comic

• Daisy Earl, Chortle Best Newcomer winner

• Arron Wood, tipped by Rolling Stone UK as one to watch

• Alex Camp, musical comic with a twist

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Workshops and Wellbeing.

This isn’t just about watching comedy—it’s about creating it. Ace Lips has teamed up with Dave Williams to run comedy workshops. These sessions are designed to help aspiring comedians build confidence, especially those facing challenges like social anxiety or mental health issues.

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Family-Friendly Fun

Incivility is key. The festival features shows for all ages, including a child-only performance by Jonny Awsum at Broadfield Community Primary School. It’s a rare treat for young audiences to experience live comedy tailored just for them.

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 Local Venues, Big Impact

From community halls to iconic spaces like the Rochdale Masonic Lodge, Ace Lips has programmed events that bring comedy directly into the heart of the borough. Their “Laughs at the Lodge” night is just one example of how they’re blending local charm with top-tier talent.

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A Cultural Celebration

Backed by Rochdale Borough Council, Your Trust, and the Rochdale Town Centre BID, the festival is part of Rochdale’s year as Greater Manchester’s Town of Culture. Ace Lips Comedy’s programming reflects this spirit—celebrating community, creativity, and connection through laughter.

Ace Lips Comedy hasn’t just booked acts—they’ve built a festival that’s bold, inclusive, and bursting with personality. Whether you’re a die-hard comedy fan or just looking for a good night out, Rochdale’s first comedy festival promises something unforgettable.

Want to see the full line-up and get tickets? Check out - Ace Lips Events’ official page.