Dance festival to celebrate Tameside’s rich culture and heritage comes to Hyde

Residents are being invited to step into the rhythm of Tameside’s past and present as a vibrant new dance festival arrives in Hyde later this month.

The free two-day event, TRANSMISSION, will take over Hyde Town Hall on Friday, March 20 and Saturday, March 21, 2026, bringing performances, workshops and even a roaming silent disco to the town centre.

The festival celebrates the borough’s rich and varied dance heritage while encouraging communities to help shape what dance means to Tameside today.

Organised by Tameside Council’s Cultural Services in partnership with local artist Sarah Hardacre, the evolving programme will showcase the many styles that have defined the borough over the decades.

From traditional Morris dancing to the elegance of ballroom, the energy of Rock and Roll, the unmistakable sound of Northern Soul and the pulse of rave culture, the festival will explore how dance has been woven into Tameside’s cultural story.

As well as watching performances, residents will have the chance to take part in workshops and interactive activities designed to get people of all ages moving.

The event has been commissioned by Greater Manchester Arts and is supported by GMCA Spirit, with part-funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

All events and activities are free to attend, although some sessions will require booking.

Cllr Stephen Homer, Tameside Council’s Executive Member for Towns, Transport and Connectivity, said: “We’re so excited to bring this fantastic celebration of Tameside’s artistic culture and heritage to Hyde. TRANSMISSION gives us the chance to honour history while creating something new with local groups.

“It’s set to be a fun, energetic event that everyone can enjoy, and I’m looking forward to seeing the town come alive with creativity.”

More information about the festival and booking details can be found at www.intameside.co.uk/news/transmission.