PLANS for a weekend of dance in Hyde have been hit by disruption, but organisers are pressing ahead with a packed programme of free outdoor events.
The evening elements of the two-day TRANSMISSION Dance Festival, scheduled for Friday (March 21) and Saturday (March 22) inside the town hall, have been cancelled after a fire forced the building’s closure.
Despite the setback, the festival’s daytime offer will go ahead as planned on Saturday, with Hyde Market Square set to host a mix of performances, workshops and interactive activities between 11am and 2.30pm.
Organisers say the revised programme still promises “a full day of creativity and community fun,” bringing together a wide range of dance styles that reflect the area’s cultural mix – from traditional Morris dancing to breakdancing, Bollywood and Bhangra. A silent disco is also planned.
The event has been coordinated by Tameside Council’s Cultural Services team, alongside festival producer Sarah Hardacre, who have worked to reshape the schedule at short notice.
Councillor Stephen Homer, Tameside Council’s Executive Member for Towns, Transport and Connectivity, acknowledged the disappointment caused by the cancellations but encouraged residents to support the festival.
He said: “While it’s extremely unfortunate we have had to cancel one day of the festival due to the town hall being unavailable following the fire, this is still going to a fantastic event for the local community, with the Saturday programme bringing lots of exciting and creative opportunities for everyone to get involved in while also supporting the town centre.
“We’re sorry for all the groups and organisations involved in the programme, as we know how much work went into the planning, and we want to acknowledge the effort and contributions given. But please everyone do still come down and enjoy the day on Saturday!”
Sarah Hardacre, TRANSMISSION Executive Producer, added: “While it’s very disappointing that some TRANSMISSION events can no longer go ahead due to circumstances beyond our control, I’m incredibly proud of the artists, partners and community members who have contributed their time, energy and trust to help shape the project over the past year.
“The relationships built through this work will last well beyond this weekend, and I’m pleased that our free daytime programme will still bring dance, performance, participation and community activity to Hyde Market Square on Saturday.”