Friday 4 May

Little Johnny England has been steadily making an impact on the folk and roots circuit with their own brand of folk rock, establishing a reputation as the band that is putting the 'rock' back into folk rock.

The band is comprised of five musicians who have been working within folk, traditional and mainstream for many years. Their individual credits include Peter Kaye, Fatima Mansisons, Show of Hands, Ruby Turner, The Steve Gibbons Band and The Albion Band to name just a few.

"They make a stirring sound indeed. Guaranteed to revive the jaded palates of those who thought electric folk was all but dead and buried."- Traditional Music Maker

Saturday 23 June

This incredible duo makes an enchanting and unique Indo-Celtic sound. Their acoustic concerts of song, story and music blend the East/West harmonies of Robin and Bina's vocals with harp, bowed psaltery, dulcimer and many other instruments.

Original, traditional and spiritual folk.

"Pure beauty through simplicity" - Robert Plant.

Friday 5 October

Eliza Gilkyson returns with songs about the exuberant nature of love and life with meditative tunes about the world's rich mysteries. Her new album, Roses at the End of Time, has been described as "a strong, mature work that's also fresh, confident, and full of passion ".

"lush and passionate... edgy lyrics with piercing imagery"New York Times

Saturday 12 May

The Boggies are a totally authentic band who have made a musical niche that is distinctly their own. Their energetic, original vocal material and instrumental music excitingly fuses traditional Irish, Scottish, country and Cajun genres.

Thursday 10 May

Emily Smith is a leading light of the contemporary Scottish folk scene. Her powerful, clear vocals have gained her award winning, worldwide recognition. As a songwriter Emily has been likened to "a Scottish Joni Mitchell", but as a collector she is equally adept at presenting fresh and evocative interpretations of traditional songs.

She has worked with artists such as Richard Thompson, Beth Nielsen Chapman and Eddi Reader. Recent TV appearances include Transatlantic Sessions 4 and BBC Songs of Praise.

"As far as I'm concerned she can walk on water"Mike Harding, BBC Radio 2

"Smith could become to Scottish folk what Joni Mitchell is to its Californian cousin"Q

"Smith deserves to become yet another new folk celebrity"The Guardian

Wednesday 14 March

Join Bury FC's official cheerleading team Street Shakers Cheerleading and Dance Club with special guests from St.Gabriels and Bury Church High School Dance Squads for a night of dance and talent like no other!

Dancers from all over Bury and beyond will perform routines from the 70s right through to hip-hop, pom pom cheers and arial displays.

Not to be missed by dance enthusiasts and budding cheerleaders!

Thursday 3 May

A veritable Americana feast with full sets from Richmond Fontaine in duo format (featuring Willy Vlautin and Dan Eccles) and Richard Buckner with an opening set from Peter Bruntnell.

A Mr Kite Benefit.

Wednesday 17 October - Saturday 20 October

A group of extraordinary women, members of a very ordinary Yorkshire WI, spark a global phenomenon by persuading one another to pose for a charity calendar with a difference! As interest snowballs, the Calendar Girls find themselves revealing more than they'd ever planned...

A very British story, with a very British heart, Calendar Girls is Tim Firth's record-breaking stage adaptation of the 2003 film.

"An uplifting and very inspiring true story that is quirky, poignant and hilarious".

"A show whose feelgood factor is sky-high".

Saturday 7 April

Winner of Best Jazz Vocalist at the BBC Jazz Awards in 2007 and 2004, Ian Shaw has already amassed a number of highly acclaimed albums and is a popular performer both in the UK and the US. An incredibly colourful character, he has been cited as one of the world's finest male jazz vocalists.

Wednesday 7 March

"Ash, feathers, wings, raven, prophesy. Always the same... circles, dips, lost, looking for something"

A young man's dream of flight has ghostly consequences. Set in the shadow of two world wars, this haunting family saga is a tale of ambition and secrets and passion unspent.

Thin Air is a new play by Carnegie Award-winning author Berlie Doherty. The supernatural story of a First World War fighter pilot who returns home from the horrors of the war in possession of a secret that will haunt his community for generations to come...

Thursday 1 March

A hilarious evening featuring the cream of comedy talent live in Ramsbottom. With;

Paul Tonkinson - as seen on Michael McIntyre's Comedy Roadshow and much, much more...

Gerry K - Back by demand!

Rising star Jamie Kilday

with compere Ian Fox.

Thursday 5 April

A hilarious evening featuring the cream of comedy talent Live in Ramsbottom. With;

Jay Hampson- excellent timing, a laid back delivery and intelligent material drawing topics as varied as his personal battle with social class to the sexual inadequacy of endangered species.

Plus three more exciting acts!

Wednesday 7 March

Learn how to record and edit sound using Pro Tools, the industry standard digital audio software. Tricks, tips and shortcuts.

A three week course on Wednesdays, 7-8pm, starting March 7.

Friday 6 April - Sunday 8 April

Bury Jazz Weekender is an opportunity for players of all abilities to learn to play jazz as part of an ensemble.

The weekend begins with Welcome to Jazz, a showcase of the many genres of jazz, from dixieland to bluenote, all explained by the Bury Jazz Weekender's resident tutors.

On Saturday morning participants are split into four groups and will learn a repertoire in time for the gig on Sunday night. Sunday involves a percussion and rhythm awareness session.

Workshop leaders are:

Dave Hassell (drums/percussion) a talented workshop leader who works throughout the North West.

Simon Goulding (bass/guitar) currently the bass player for Snake Davis' band.

Paul Kilvington (piano/keyboards) just finished the Jack Jones tour.

Munch Manship (saxophone) an experienced jazz educator who runs regular groups in Bury and Manchester.

The Jazz Weekender ticket includes admission to all concerts over the course of the weekend.

Sunday 8 April

Come along to hear the talented musicians of the Bury Jazz Weekender!

Image by Elisabeth D'Orcy

Friday 6 April

A showcase of the many genres of jazz, from dixieland to bluenote, all explained by the Bury Jazz Weekender's resident tutors Dave Hassell, Simon Goulding, Paul Kilvington and Munch Manship.

Saturday 19 May

Deep in the forest, by the banks of a great river, lived a large crocodile. He was a very selfish crocodile and he wouldn't share this river with any of the other creatures. He thought it was HIS river! So, the animals stayed away.

But, one day there was a terrible scream - the crocodile had a toothache. Nobody dared to help him, until a brave little mouse appeared, and found a clever way to solve this snappy dilemma.

Based on the best-selling children's book by Faustin Charles and Mike Terry. This is a funny, heart-warming take with a very happy ending which reminds us all that the smallest act of kindness often has the greatest impact.

Blunderbus use song, music and a host of handcrafted puppets to bring this watery adventure to life. This is a must-see for 3-7 year olds, their grown-up's, and of course, anybody with a pet crocodile.

Saturday 26 May

Stacey Kent, a best-selling member of the Blue Note roster of recording artists, now boasts six best-selling albums, a string of awards, including the British Jazz Award, The BBC Jazz Award for 'Best Vocalist', and Album of the Year , as well as a fan base that enables her to sell-out concert halls around the world.

"She has charm to burn, a smile that could give you hope in February and sings like nobody's business"The Wall Street Journal

Friday 8 June

This group are immensely talented with a live energy rarely rivaled, Daimh (Dive) offer a fresh, up to date approach to traditional music.

An exciting combination of musicians perform high energy, fast-flowing mixture of tunes, fusing together their individual styles on bagpipes, fiddle, banjo, guitar, bodhran and mandola to create a unique and compelling sound.

Saturday 19 May

Described by The Guardian as "the finest instrumental duo on the traditional scene" and twice winners of the BBC Radio 2 folk award for Best Duo, John Spiers and Jon Boden have made the genre of spontaneous, punky English folk very much their own stomping ground. Loud, proud, and with just a few acoustic instruments, they create a multitude of textures upon which they present traditional stories and dance music which are as much at home on the main stage of Cambridge Folk Festival as they are in a lock-in at the local pub.

Thursday 26 April

BBC Radio 2 Horizon Award Nominees Katriona Gilmore (Rosie Doonan and the Snapdragons, ex-Tiny Tin Lady) and Jamie Roberts (Kerfuffle) have been performing together since 2006. Their self-penned material ranges from blazing instrumentals to heart-wrenching songs, to contemporary arrangements of traditional songs.

Shadows and Half Light, the duo's first album has been described as "inspired" by fRoots and awarded five stars by Rock'n'Reel.

Saturday 21 April

Widely regarded as one of the finest singer-songwriters and performers around, Love And Money frontman James Grant plays material from all his critically acclaimed solo albums and a smattering of the old favourites in a solo acoustic setting. This is a show not to be missed, raw, heart-rending and uplifting...as MOJO says, "This is music from another place..."

Friday 20 April

For more than 40 years, Andy has been a world music pioneer and icon for traditional music and musicians. Founder member of bands such as Sweeney's Men, Planxty, Patrick Street, and Mozaik, he has been hailed as "a tradition in himself."

Musician, singer and songwriter, few others can equal his repertoire: Irish traditional songs, dexterous Balkan dance tunes, and a compelling canon of his own material that defies description.

"His artistry is quite simply unique." - The Independent

Wednesday 11 April

New, touchingly human, universally funny, theatrical clowns, for all ages from 6 upwards.

Felix and Filomena are the very best of mates, but Felix secretly fancies his best mate Filomena. Unfortunately, Felix does not have much going for him. He is not exactly Brad Pitt.

So, as faithful a friend, and as big-hearted and generous as Filomena is, will Felix get the girl of his dreams?

Thursday 29 March

Not appropriate is the most overused term of disapproval in the teacher's canon.

Join Kevin as he explores his former life as a teacher. A show that will appeal to anyone who has ever taught or - for that matter - been to school; parts of which are likely to be not appropriate...

Friday 13 April

Since releasing her debut solo album in 2005 and being awarded Best Up and Coming Artist at the 2005 Scots Trad Music Awards, Jenna Reid has undoubtedly remained one of the brightest young talents ever to grace the traditional music scene. Jenna is joined by sister Bethany, the youngest ever winner of Shetland's Young Fiddler of the Year competition. Edinburgh based guitarist, Kevin Mackenzie completes the trio.

Nominated as Best Instrumentalist at the 2007 Scots Trad Awards, Jenna's career continues to go from strength to strength.

Wednesday 18 April

Peter, a quiet, awkward fisherman, still lives at home with his acerbic and overbearing mother. One fateful night, he brings a seal-woman home from the sea. As Sally grows into life on land, their hopes and secrets catastrophically collide in this funny, moving, and visually striking retelling of a selkie myth. With simple staging and haunting live music, The Harbour unearths an over-fished world filled with impossible desires.

"A masterclass in surreal storytelling." - East Anglia Daily Press.

"Such revels are the reason we venture forth to the theatre...one quickly relaxes into total confidence in the troupe's ability to conjure and entertain, which is a rare treat." - The Prague Post

Limbik creates new theatre work that explores human stories set in epic environments, combining innovative theatrical style with strong narrative craft.

Friday 27 April

Labelled respectively as 'one of the most original harmonica players in Britain' and 'the UK's top Clawhammer banjoist', the two have joined forces to create a highly entertaining and astonishing live set.

Prepare to be astonished by stunning vocals, frailing banjo wizardry and sounds you didn't think were possible on harmonica. The pair have just finished recording their debut album.

Saturday 18 February

Tim and Brendan are both amongst the finest instrumentalists of their generation. Playing together, their passion and virtuosity is infectious. They have been nominated for Best Duo at the 2012 BBC Folk Awards

Saturday 17 March

A first class tribute to the Swedish sensation Abba. Meet Abba Again in all their glittery glory and hear the classics that made Abba the phenomenon they are. This local band have made numerous TV appearances on prime time shows and documentaries that have carved them a great reputation across the UK and Europe.

Tuesday 7 February

Socialist writers have had a huge influence on modern drama and theatre. This challenging course covers Agitprop, Brecht, Unity Theatre, Augusto Boal, Joan Littlewood, Athol Fungard, Banner Theatre and 7:84 amongst others.

At the end of the course students will put their heads together to see if they can construct a piece of socialist theatre of their own using the techniques they have learnt.

Course runs on Tuesdays for 10 weeks starting Tuesday 7 February 2012.

For further information and to book your place phone Tom on 07716848894 or email tomm562002@yahoo.com

This Socialist Theatre course is run by the Workers Educational Association (WEA)

Thursday 5 April

A hilarious evening featuring the cream of comedy talent on the first Thursday of every month.This month features Scottish comedian of the year Ro Campbell (a great achievement for an Australian!) plus soon-to-be-famous Nina Smith.

Plus two more hillarious acts!

Friday 30 March

Leap into springtime with Metro Jazz. A vernal feast of music in the jazz vernacular, featuring Metro Jazz, The Met's own community jazz orchestra, led by the legendary Munch Manship.

Image by Louise Docker

Friday 16 March

Formerly known as Greenmac, this great British Blues Band showcases the blues music of Peter Green, BB King, Gary Moore, Elmore James, Hendrix and many more!

Thursday 15 March

As seen at Ramsbottom Festival, Kirsty Almeida draws you into her enchanting, uplifting and, at times, devilishly dark world.

Classic songwriting mixes with murder lullabies, broken blues-folk beauty, New Orleans soul, voodoo-tinged-pop and a healthy dose of Tim Burton-style brooding.

Friday 9 March

Multi award wining Chris Wood is an uncompromising writer whose music reveals his love for the un-official history of the English speaking people.

With gentle intelligence he weaves the tradition with his own contemporary parables. His writing has been said to share the same timeless quality as Richard Thompson at his best.

Friday 10 February

Errol is three times winner of the Best British Blues Harmonica Player Award. His most recent album Mama Said has gained fantastic reviews in the national papers such as The Independent On Sunday, The Observer, The Sunday Times and The Daily Telegraph, and magazines like Mojo.

"Errol deserves more than an underground reputation" MOJO.

"Gifted"INDEPENDENT ON SUNDAY

"Fascinating new talent"SUNDAY TIMES

Friday 23 March

Singer/songwriter Yvonne Lyon is among the best and brightest emerging talent currently from Scotland. Her new album Ashes & Gold has been achieving five star reviews and combines poignant lyrics with strong, creative melodies, demonstrating a voice that can be both fragile and intense.

She has consistently drawn and stirred crowds across the UK with her emotive performances. Yvonne has toured extensively throughout the UK and shared the stage with the likes of Patti Griffin, Luka Bloom, Karine Polwart, Juliet Turner and Iona.

"Just stunning music"- Bob Harris BBC Radio 2

Saturday 14 April

David R Black are currently on tour promoting their third album Secret City, released last year to great reviews.

Tuesday 21 February

An 'undiscovered' Aristophanes comedy, The Games tells the story of three Greek nobodies caught up in a celestial bet between Zeus, Hera and Hercules. Our unwitting heroes: Stanzas (a terrible poet), Darius (the runt of the litter) and Hermaphrodite (born a girl) travel to compete in the ancient Olympics and take on the heroes of the sporting world with epic results for mankind.

The Games incorporates clown, original music, song, shadow puppetry and original music.

Thursday 12 April

Po'Girl have become one of the most successful bands ever to emerge from Canada, weaving a blend of musical influences, sweetness, grit & soul.

These urban minstrels pen harmony drenched melodies you'll find yourself humming, wowing audiences across the globe with their powerful, passionate and spirited live show.

Thursday 5 April

Award winning Scottish folk singer-songwriter Karine Polwart's simple but evocative style has established her as one of the genre's most respected artists. Don't miss a compelling performance from one of Scotland's finest and most captivating folk artists who will be showcasing tracks from her new, much anticipated, fifth studio album scheduled for release in summer 2012.

Friday 30 March

With their inimitable blend of music and comedy The Houghton Weavers ensure an excellent show with laugh out loud moments a plenty. Their down to earth Northern charm guarantees a family friendly and welcoming atmosphere where audience participation is greatly encouraged. So come and sing along and take a nostalgic trip down memory lane.

Thursday 8 March

Eddie and Frank Thomas return to The Met sharing stories from the American South, filtered through the hearts, minds and eyes of two ageless baby boomers from Mississippi. Their music "has the feel of a scrapbook stored in the attic,"...and their lyrics "have a timeless ability to melt a romantic's heart."

Thursday 16 February

Join Shake-a-Leg and Rivington Morris Side in Ramsbottom for a great night of folk music and dancing with a whistle theme.

Saturday 18 February

Here's your chance to grasp the basics of whistle playing with one of the

best whistle teachers in the business Terry Walsh.

Entry level only. High D Whistle required.

Saturday 18 February

This is your chance to share in the creative talents of two absolutely

outstanding pipe and whistle musicians; James Duncan MacKenzie and Calum MacCrimmon of Breabach.

This workshop is designed to build a traditional tune from its raw state -

through to decoration and finalising this outcome with (illustrations of how

to create) exciting improvisations.

There will be the opportunity for working in smaller groups during this

session.

Intermediate players onwards.

Friday 25 May

It Bites are touring the UK in May 2012 to play their new Inside Out Album Map of the Past. Classic Rock Magazine has called these songs future classics and this will be the first chance for fans to here the new album with songs and rarities from It Bites back catalogue. Support will be Jon Amor Blues Group.

Tuesday 27 March

Presented by Phil McIntyre Entertainments in association with Vivienne Smith Management.

Lovable comedian Patrick Monahan blends a high energy style with hilarious and engaging stories of his Irish/Iranian/Teeside heritage. Patrick performs this hit show direct from the Edinburgh Festival. Laugh and be hugged at the same time!

The winner of ITV One's Show Me The Funny!

"Raised the roof"- The Sun

"Omid Djalili meets Dave Allen" - Daily Mail

"Lovable stuff"- Independent

Saturday 18 February

Phil Brown hosts what has been dubbed the 'This is Your Life of The Whistle'. An hour of music and chat discovering the musical secrets and creative passion behind the stunning whistle playing of Kan's Brian Finnegan.

Saturday 18 February

Big Whistle Festival favourite Mat Walklate takes one tune and provides a detailed look into forming it into a performance level piece. Mat will be

accompanied by Matt Fahey on guitar to provide a fuller experience of arranging a tune.

The taught content of this workshop will be directly transferable into the 'Studio Experience' workshop.

Low or High D Whistle required.

Saturday 18 February

Can you play a few tunes on the whistle already? Can you play a number of

scales and do you think you are ready for a further challenge? If so, you

are probably either at Beginner level or Beginner +.

Here's a workshop with a specific focus on gaining more confidence in your playing by building your repertoire of simple tunes. Your workshop leader Terry Walsh is an expert in this field - what are you waiting for?

High D Whistle required.

Saturday 18 February

Ross Ainslie (Salsa Celtica) is a virtuoso of pipes and whistles. His prolific piping and whistling prowess will form the bedrock of this workshop. Ross will specifically focus upon the content of his recently published tune book to help workshop participants to build a repertoire. Ross will, as always, be ready to impart crucial advice on his legendary finger technique.

Intermediate + to advanced.

Low or High D Whistle required.

Saturday 18 February

Indulge yourself in a two hour session at the The Met's very own Edwin Street Recording Studio. Here is your chance to create and record a whistle tune and be involved in the production of this recorded track under the guidance of Mat Walklate (accompanied by Matt Fahey).

Intermediate to advanced level players. Low or High D Whistle required.

The intermediate players from the Take One Tune workshop will already be familiar with the taught tune content of this workshop which will be directly transferable into this workshop. Low or High D Whistle required.

Advanced players need not attend Take a Tune to qualify for attendding

this workshop.

Thursday 19 April

Challenging and compassionate, Steve Ashley is one of folk's finest singer-songwriters. His songs have been covered by Fairport Convention, Anne Briggs, Martin Simpson, Wizz Jones, Phil Beer and many other artists.

His award-winning debut album, Stroll On is widely acknowledged as a folk-rock classic and his latest, Time and Tide was described by fROOTS as "a modern day masterpiece".

Saturday 10 March - Sunday 11 March

In association with the charity Allergy UK, MAM Productions are delivering two evenings of musical mayhem. The aim of the shows is to deliver some fantastic musical entertainment while raising awareness of the charity.

Saturday 31 March

Based on Frank Baum's original story, Dorothy, the Tin Man, the Scarecrow and the Cowardly Lion all follow the Yellow Brick Road to the Emerald City and Oz.

After many adventures and the defeat of a wicked witch, the friends are given much more than they originally requested. However, will Dorothy and Toto get back home to Kansas?

With excellent original music, superb costumes, ingenious scenery and a great driving action this production is guaranteed to hold you spellbound.

Suitable for 5-11 year olds and their families.

Saturday 3 March

Aynsley has never been an artist to reheat the music of yesteryear. Influenced from an early age by the 60's RnB era, Lister takes these key elements and mixes them with a more current and melodic lyrical approach.

Although better known for his electrifying band performances, this is a chance to see him up close and personal in a stripped down, intimate setting. Don't be fooled into thinking solo means 'limited and plodding'; his solo performances are the perfect platform to witness his amazing ability to sync rhythmical chords, bass lines and stinging lead guitar whilst singing and accompanying it all with his custom built stomp box! Expect an eclectic range of material from blues to folk and everything in between.

"His guitar playing is a fire hazard"- MOJO

"Superb"- THE TIMES

Saturday 31 March

Charismatic and massively talented, Mojo magazine rated Siegal as "the cleverest writer and most magnetic performer of Blues in the UK." In 2009, Mojo commended Siegal for recording the Blues Album of the Year. Last year Siegal won Band of the Year at the 2010 British Blues Awards.

Saturday 11 February

Edwina Hayes numbers Michael Parkinson and Bob Harris among her fans. Her beautifully written songs, charming stage presence and voice of an angel have won her a reputation as a true natural talent of gentle folk-americana. She has opened numerous shows for Jools Holland and Van Morrison and the title track of her album Pour Me A Drink was covered by Nanci Griffith who calls her 'the sweetest voice in England'.

Her cover of Randy Newman's Feels Like Home was featured in the Cameron Diaz film My Sister's Keeper and has since had over two million plays on YouTube.

Saturday 21 April

The Big Figures is a proper R&B band in the classic Dr Feelgood mould, featuring BBC 6 Music DJ Mark Radcliffe and his best mate of over thirty years, PJ Walmsley.

Feelgood afficionados will know that The Big Figure was the drummer in the original group and that explains the name of this band, rather than any reference to the middle-aged spread experienced by certain members. Fresh from performing at The Ramsbottom Festival make sure you catch this fantastic band, and help us to raise money for the next Ramsbottom Festival.

Please note this event has been moved from 19 April @ 8pm

Friday 24 February

In a world of pre-packaged, disposable Pop; Sarah Dixon is a breath of fresh air. The Manchester based singer/songwriter combines insightful lyrics, graceful guitar and a voice that cannot fail to wow. Currently one of Manchester's best kept secrets, her songs have a depth and emotion beyond her years. The music she makes is euphoric, yet bittersweet. Often intimate, always engaging, she is truly a star in the making.

Thursday 23 February

With influences from Bonnie Raitt to Little Feat, Etta James to Bill Withers, Steely Dan, James Brown and Keb Mo, Midnight Train is a mix of Funk, Soul, Blues and R & B creating an uplifting and dynamic set, which appeals to a wide range of audiences.

Accompanying Debbie Giles' smooth rich vocals are Steve Oakman a vibrant, creative keyboard player, on guitar the sensitive touch of Pete Emery and on steady funky bass Chris Belshaw.

Thursday 12 April

Love is in the air in the Pickles household. Mariah Pickles loves her boyfriend Jarvis, they are expecting their first child, Baby Ga Ga. Mariah's Mam loves her Bobby, but he's inside for looting and her brother Carlton is looking for love on the internet.

Mariah's Nanna however has lots of loves. One night, one of her fancy men, Wheelchair Barry, takes her on a date to a psycic supper where she's contacted by a lover from long ago. Nanna is over the moon but Barry is jealous of the fella from the other side.

From the producers of Angels With Manky Faces, Thai Brides and Teacakes and The Demise & Rise of Bunny Lamar this is MaD Theatre Company's latest comedy. Miss it and your life will be that bit emptier than it should be.

Saturday 24 March

Jay Tamkin is a multidimensional, multi-talented singer/songwriter and instrumentalist who has been likened to Stevie Winwood and a young Jimi Hendrix.

He has played with and alongside Robin Trower, Eric Burdon, Chris Farlowe, Madeline Bell, Roy Ayers, Popa Chubby, Pat Travers, The Groundhogs, The Fabulous Thunderbirds, The Blockheads and many more.

Thursday 16 February

Plop was a baby Barn Owl. He lived at the top of a tall tree, in a field. He was fat and fluffy. He had big round eyes. Plop was exactly the same as every barn owl that has ever been - except for one thing. He was AFRAID of the DARK.

An irresistible blend of live music, puppetry and storytelling. Come join us, - it's going to be a hoot!

For ages 3-7 years.

Wednesday 29 February

Two men walk into a pub - and then it stops being normal.

Pints are drunk; conversation spans the creation of the universe, the meaning of happiness, the chemical construction of pork scratchings - and how they seem to know more about each other than complete strangers could, or should. And they both seem to recollect dreams in which they met Laurel and Hardy, and each other.

As the alcohol kicks in Simon and Peter find themselves lurching towards an unnerving philosophical and spiritual world, where it becomes a distinct possibility that they are Laurel and Hardy reincarnated... but that's simply laughable, absurd and beyond comprehension - isn't it?

This funny, tender, melancholic and puzzling play comes from the company who created recent hit shows Meeting Joe Strummer and Don't Shoot The Clowns.

Friday 10 February

She's a straight-up storyteller with a voice to blow all others clean out of the water. 19-year-old Scottish singer-songwriter Rachel Sermanni packs an almighty punch with her earthy folk melodies and dextrous fingerpicking. She recently released Black Currents' EP to great acclaim.

Saturday 11 February

Join Bury Choral Society for a night of drama, love and tragedy as they perform some of the best loved choruses from Carmen, Il trovatore, La traviata and more under the baton of musical director Sinead Hayes.

Bury Choral Society are joined by professional soloists and accompanied on piano by Jonathan Ellis. It will be an unforgettable night, not to be missed.

Tuesday 14 February

Horse + Bamboo present a gorgeously rendered re-telling of the classic girl-and-the-wolf tale.

Exquisite visuals blend with pantomime-style silliness and spooky moments to create an enchanting piece of theatre. Ideal for all ages over 4.

The story that everybody knows - or do they?

Thursday 1 March

A hilarious evening featuring the cream of comedy talent on the first Thursday of every month. This month features Paul Tonkinson - as seen on Michael McIntyre's Comedy Roadshow and much, much more... , Gerry K - Back by demand! Oldham lad Dom Woodward plus up-and-coming-star Sam Harland.

Saturday 17 March

Jake Morley is a remarkable singer-songwriter who plays guitar across his lap and slaps, taps, plucks and picks the instrument to produce a sound like no-one else. His instrumental skill is combined with masterly writing, crafting songs that are both engaging and instantly memorable. He has just released his first album to great acclaim.

Thursday 8 March

Singer/songwriter Beverley Craven is probably best known for her 1991 hits Promise Me and Holding On and her multi-million selling debut album.

Now Beverley is back on the road with a 'stripped down and laid bare' duo line-up, featuring her superlative saxophone player (who admits to feeling very exposed!). Currently working on her forthcoming acoustic album, she will be performing songs about life, love, liberation and libido... This is guaranteed to be an evening of stunning musicianship coupled with poignant sentiments & a sharp wit.

Thursday 16 February - Saturday 18 February

The Big Whistle Festival returns this February for more folk gigs and workshops with the humble tin whistle at its core.

Big Whistle 2012 will feature headliners Kan, Breabach, Ross Ainslie, Tim Edey and Bredan Power and Treacherous Orchestra.

WEEKEND TICKET Grab yourself a bargain and get a weekend ticket for 45 pounds! The ticket will include full access to all Big Whistle Festival workshops and shows.

SATURDAY DAY TICKET If you are unable to attend the whole Big Whistle Festival but are still eager to see all of Saturday's concerts, grab yourself a bargain by purchasing a Saturday Day Ticket. For just 32 pounds you gain admission to Brebach at 1.30pm, Tim Edey and Brendan Power at 3.30pm, Ross Ainslie Duo at 7pm and The Treacherous Orchestra at 9pm.

Please contact Box Office on 0161 761 2216 to book either the Weekend Ticket or the Saturday Day Ticket so we can allocate your seats for the performances.

Friday 17 February

A perfect blend of Flook and Lau!

Brian Finnegan and Aidan O'Rourke, front men with two of the most revered bands ever to have thrilled the folk scene, join forces with Ian Stephenson on guitar and Jim Goodwin on drums to create an enthralling and beautiful new sound.

Saturday 18 February

Scottish firebrands Breabach are one of the most talked about bands on the folk scene. Their innovative Celtic style shows flare, excitement and diversity rarely seen from such a young group.

"The phenomenon that is Breabach hit the stage like a highland army advancing out of the mountain mist... Frighteningly young to be this accomplished"Eric Worrall

Saturday 18 February

Treacherous Orchestra are a turbo-charged thirteen-piece supergroup comprising some of Scotland's finest young instrumentalists.

The band features past and present members of Salsa Celtica, the Peatbog Faeries, Old Blind Dogs, Session A9 and Box Club (to name but a few).

Their astounding musicianship combines with ferocious energy and sophisticated musical arrangements with explosive results, earning them a fearsome reputation as an incendiary live act.

Saturday 18 February

A new star of Celtic music and a Met regular, piper Ross Ainslie is making a real name for himself on the folk scene playing with bands such as Salsa Celtica and Treacherous Orchestra. Ross plays a fine mix of original and traditional tunes.

Ross is joined at The Met by guitarist Ali Hutton.

Saturday 5 May

Home Service was the greatest British folk rock band of the eighties. Formed out of the ashes of The Albion Band, for a few short years they burned bright, singing passionate political songs that exposed the rotten heart of Thatcher's Britain. They recorded three great albums, still beloved by fans, climaxing with the iconic Happy Jack. And then they stopped.

Now, three decades later, Home Service are back. Surviving members John Tams, Graeme Taylor, Steve King, Jon Davie, Michael Gregory, Paul Archibald, Roger Williams and Andy Findon have reunited to promote Live 1986, a new album of previously unheard live recordings. Just as powerful and committed as ever, Home Service are back in business.

Saturday 3 March

Gretchen Peters is a singer-songwriter who is critically acclaimed by press and fans alike. She's written hits for Martina McBride, Etta James and Neil Diamond amongst others. She has also won the Country Music Association Song Of The Year award.

Saturday 21 April

'How I long to sail' said the tiny snail...

A tiny snail longs to see the world, so she hitches a lift on the tail of a huge humpback whale. Together they go on an amazing journey, experiencing sharks and penguins, icebergs and volcanoes. The little snail is amazed by it all, but starts feeling very small in the vastness of the world...

Then disaster strikes - the whale becomes beached in a bay... Can the tiny snail save the day?

Tall Stories, creators of the Gruffalo and Room on the Broom stage shows, are proud to present their latest collaboration with Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Created in Tall Stories' unique style, The Snail and the Whale combines physical storytelling, live music and lots of laughs - for everyone aged 4 and up.

Thursday 23 February

Karnataka rose to the forefront of new, Celtic inspired rock bands, following the release of five critically acclaimed albums. The band's latest release, The Gathering Light, recently won Best International Album at the World Web Awards in Italy.

Winning plaudits from Radio 2's Bob Harris and Rick Wakeman, Karnataka have performed in the UK, USA and Europe alongside prestigious artists such as Robert Plant and Porcupine Tree.

In 2011 Karnataka took another major leap forward with the announcement that Hayley Griffiths, lead vocalist with Riverdance and Michael Flatley's Lord Of The Dance, would be joining the band. Hayley's beautiful vocals have already brought her major success winning Best Classical Crossover Artist in 2010.

The band make a much anticipated return to the stage in 2012 with the announcement of their UK tour.

"symphonic and epic" - Empire

"A genuinely potent force... virtuoso" - Classic Rock Presents Prog

"A sublime level of accomplishment... epic proportions... magnificent... dreamy and ethereal... grandiose and bold"- Fireworks Magazine

From powerful to ethereal, breathtaking to haunting, Karnataka's music takes you on a never to be forgotten journey.

Friday 11 May

Best selling and award winning author, radio and TV personality Gervaise Phinn will have you on the edges of your seats, as he shares his hilarious and sometimes poignant tales of life as a schools inspector in the Yorkshire Dales. Dubbed "the James Herriot of schools".

With his keen ear for the absurd and sharp eye for the ludicrous, Gervase Phinn has delighted audiences all over the UK with stories of his experiences as a school inspector.

Gervase Phinn has been touring theatres across the country for over 9 years now as a hilarious raconteur. He really is at his best and most exciting in front of a live audience.

"Laugh-out-loud funny"- Women's Weekly

"Gervase Phinn has a unique understanding and love of children, and a wonderful gift for storytelling ... a real star"- Esther Rantzen

"He tells a cracking good tale" - The Times

Thursday 9 February

Following spectacular performances on BBC One's Michael McIntyre's Comedy Roadshow, here's a rare chance to see two top-billing circuit stars sharing the same bill in a double-headline show.

Between them, they have accumulated decades of experience on the live comedy circuit; they have written and performed five acclaimed shows for the Edinburgh Comedy Festival and performed across the globe, wowing audiences as far and wide as Montreal, Melbourne, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia and The Fawklands (and most places in between). Simply put, it's a guarantee of first-class laughs, served up by two of the best in the business.

Mike Gunn:

"one of the ten leading stand-ups in Britain" Independent on Sunday

"Compelling... Absorbing... Darkly funny"The Scotsman

Sean Collins:

"First class"Chortle

"Expert comedy done effortlessly... Long overdue a major break" Edinburgh Evening News

Thursday 29 March

This contemporary acoustic ensemble first came together through Bristol's folk sessions scene in 1993, trading under the name of The Famous Five.

Their third album Lightbox is an extraordinarily stirring record, it showcases a highly imaginative and highly disciplined group with a sound that's unified but never uniform. All four members, all four instruments, pull in the same direction, creating music thats intricate yet so full of momentum. These are hurrying, scurrying soundscapes that sweep majestically with cinematic presence, echoing - at various points - the work of Steve Reich, Michael Nyman and the Penguin Cafe Orchestra.

But, kindred spirits aside, this is the music of Spiro - undeniably English, undeniably theirs.

"Spiro's infectious melodic exuberance propels the rhythmic engine skywards like a euphoric dance anthem"- Owen Hewson, Now Then Manchester.

Thursday 1 March

Ruby Turner is Britain's premier soul artist. To date, she has released 15 albums plus the BBC's Live From Glastonbury as well as appearing on releases by the likes of Brian Ferry, UB40, Steve Winwood and Mick Jagger.

She is one of less than ten British artists to achieve a number 1 hit single in the American R&B charts with It's Gonna Be Alright and is also one of the main singers in Jools Holland's R&B Orchestra and features on many tracks on his latest album.

"Ruby Turner is truly the genuine article. Blessed with a voice that can breathe life and meaning into any song, whether it be a passionate ballad or a fast groove"- The Guardian

Also a star of stage and screen, Ruby has appeared on numerous television programmes including BBC's Eastenders, Judge John Deed, Doctors, and the Little Britain Christmas Special, had a part in the very popular Richard Curtis film Love Actually and had a part in the London West End production of Simply Heavenly.

Saturday 25 February

Mick Ralphs, a founder of two iconic rock bands and still touring with both, takes time out to explore his blues, rock, soul and funk roots. The Bad Company and Mott The Hoople guitarist is joined by some of the best-known names on the current blues scene to play blues and R'n'B favourites - from B.B. King and Otis Rush to Robert Johnson and Sonny Boy Williamson - alongside fresh interpretations of some of Mick's own classic songs.

Mick Ralphs will be supported by Virgil and The Accelerators

Friday 16 March

Four years in the making, The Speech Project is ground-breaking collection of new musical works by Gerry Diver inspired by and incorporating recordings of the spoken word of seminal Irish folk musicians including Christy Moore, Paddy Moloney of The Chieftans, Joe Cooley, Danny Meehan and more.

Uniquely Irish, ground-breaking in concept and stunningly beautiful, The Speech Project is performed by musicians including Gerry Diver, with special guest Lisa Knapp, interacting live with the spoken word recordings of the musicians used in the recordings, and accompanied by specially commissioned videos.

Friday 2 March

Karen Matheson has captivated audiences around the world and sold over a million records as the lead singer of the best-selling, internationally-renowned Celtic supergroup Capercaillie. Performing here as a solo artist, she has released three albums incorporating traditional and contemporary songs in English and Gaelic.

Friday 24 February

One of the biggest names and finest voices in British Jazz, delivering a spot on performance every time.

Tuesday 24 April - Saturday 28 April

Robert Louis Stevenson's famous story comes to life in this new production by PADOS Theatre Group.

Tuesday 20 March - Saturday 24 March

The new show from PADOS Youth Theatre.

Photo by Randy Le'Moine.