Heywood Civic has been a venue at the heart of local cultural life since 1966.
Following a capital redevelopment project, funded by Arts Council England, Rochdale Borough Council and Your Trust Rochdale, this much-loved but deteriorating civic building has been transformed into a multi-purpose cultural hub with an ambitious events and community programme, including comedy, theatre, music and more.
As well as improvements to the auditorium and backstage facilities, accessibility has been greatly enhanced with a lift to the first floor, accessible toilets on both the ground and first floors, a Changing Places facility and a lift from ground to stage level for performers.
Alongside the events programme and a brand-new Bar + Kitchen, Heywood Civic is also the new home for arts charity Cartwheel Arts and a resource for local artist development programmes.
Our vision for Heywood Civic
We aim to deliver a fun, high-quality programme of events, including co-productions, which are diverse, accessible and affordable for the people of Heywood and the wider Rochdale Borough.
We want to open culture for everyone, as well as support artists at all stages of their development, working with people of all ages and improving the lives of communities and individuals.
A high-quality programme
We will host a mix of commercial shows, community events and high-quality touring shows so that we are a venue for everyone. From world-renowned dance and theatre companies to much-loved comedy and music shows, we will be a cultural hub for Heywood.
Developing the next generation of artists
Through a range of programmes and opportunities, we will provide support for new, emerging and established artists and young people, enabling them to develop their skills and present their work in a well-equipped venue, ensuring they can reach their full potential.
Heywood Civic is part of Your Trust, Rochdale’s culture and leisure trust, and is supported by Rochdale Borough Council. You can read more about Your Trust’s strategic plan here.