Trafford Centre has announced that it’ll be opening a new “immersive” disco-themed roller rink this summer.
Just days after revealing that its massively-popular Summer Daze event would be returning in a few weeks time, and bringing a huge beach, two ‘splash parks’, a retro funfair, and so much more along with it, Trafford Centre is now taking things up a notch and inviting shoppers to “roll into summer” with its brand-new roller rink.
Also arriving in just a few week’s time, the new StarWash Roller Disco is described by the shopping centre as being a “dazzling disco-themed roller rink” that’s set to “make waves” this summer.
Retro roller skating seems to have been enjoying a surge in popularity over the past few years, with several having opened up in Manchester city centre in 2022 alone, but according to the Trafford Centre though, its newest addition – which will be popping-up in The Orient food court in front of the Main Stage area – is “more than just a roller rink”.
In fact, it’s said to be “an immersive experience” where skaters can “get down both on and off the rink”.
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Skaters will be “transported” to a world of “vibrant lights, pulsating beats, and a kaleidoscope of colours”, all while a DJ blasts out a soundtrack of feel-good tunes and disco classics.
The Orient at the Trafford Centre / Credit: Trafford Centre
Opening on Wednesday 19 July, and running right through until 27 August, skaters are encouraged to come dressed for the disco, or make the most of the themed dress-up area while they’re there, and have a full StarWash ‘glitter makeover’.
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There’ll also be a photo booth to create memories in, and the chance to “hang out with disco dandies and divas” at the StarWash Lounge chill out area.
Speaking ahead of the roller rink’s grand opening, Simon Layton – Centre Director at Trafford Centre – said: “The StarWash Roller Disco promises an out of the ordinary experience for all the family, so whether you’re a seasoned skater or first-time roller rink explorer, grab your gang and get ready to groove all summer long.”
The StarWash Roller Disco will be open daily from 11am-8pm on Mondays to Saturdays, and from 12pm-6pm on Sundays, with sessions lasting 25 minutes, and tickets priced are £12 peak (weekends) and £10 off peak (weekdays) – which includes skate hire and access to the StarWash Lounge.
There will also be relaxed sessions every weekday at 11am – with fewer skaters, dimmed lighting, and quieter music for those who prefer “a more chilled-out skating experience”.
All skaters under 14 must be accompanied by an adult.
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A Thomas the Tank Engine replica steam train is travelling through Greater Manchester this summer
Emily Sergeant
Everyone’s favourite little blue engine is making another return to Greater Manchester once again this summer.
But this time, it’s with a rock and roll twist.
After delighting families throughout the region during countless successful events over the past couple of years, East Lancashire Railway (ELR) has announced that the Thomas the Tank Engine replica train is back this summer, arriving in a couple of weeks for a ‘rocking good’ time.
In case you aren’t too familiar with the beloved Day Out With Thomas experience, it’s said to be ‘a train ride like no other’.
Families have the chance to hop onboard the replica of the cult-classic blue train character when he returns next weekend for a 45-minute trip through the Greater Manchester countryside.
Everyone’s favourite little blue engine is making another return to Greater Manchester this summer / Credit: ELR
The journey begins at Bury Train Station, where you’ll be greeted by The Fat Controller, meet Sir Topham Hatt, say hello to Thomas on the platform, and then climb aboard a carriage, all before Thomas makes a final stop at the beautiful Ramsbottom station.
The doors to Bury Transport Museum will also be open across the weekend and will be hosting loads of fun free activities.
On the Day Out With Thomas: Let’s Rock, Let’s Roll Tour, families will be able to watch and dance along to exciting live shows with Sodor Station Sweepers Rusty & Dusty, join in the Thomas and Friends character hunt, have fun with garden games, keep the beat going at the ‘Music Corner’ packed with music-inspired fun, and so much more.
Thomas will be stopping at East Lancashire Railway this year on 18-19 July so there’s plenty of opportunities to see him, and tickets are now on sale.
Ticket prices start at £14.50 for kids, and £24 for adults.
Beloved sitcom Dinnerladies to return after 25 years with new stage show in Manchester
Emily Sergeant
One of the most beloved sitcoms of all time is set to return after 25 years, but this time it’s coming to the stage in Manchester.
More than a quarter of a century after it was first screened on BBC One, a brand-new stage adaptation of Dinnerladies is planned for 2027, and it’ll feature a storyline inspired by the episodes and characters from the iconic original TV sitcom.
Making its premiere at Manchester Opera House in January, the new show is the first piece of the late Victoria Wood’s work to be commissioned by her Estate.
Adapted by Beth and Emma Kilcoyne, and directed by double Olivier-award winner Sean Foley, after debuting here Manchester, the production will then tour major theatres across the UK until August – with star Les Dennis as maintenance man Stan, and further casting to be announced soon.
Originally created, written by, and starring Bury comedy legend Victoria Wood, Dinnerladies ran for two acclaimed series and 16 episodes between 1998 and 2000, winning widespread critical plaudits and a devoted audience thanks to its warmth, wit, and brilliantly observed characters.
Dinnerladies is returning after 25 years with a new stage show in Manchester / Credit: BBC
Set in the canteen of fictional Manchester factory, HWD Components, the show followed the lives, friendships, and workplace dramas of the staff and regulars who gathered there every day.
Now, audiences will be reunited with the dinnerladies once again, as all the much-loved characters that made the show such a huge British comedy classic will feature in the play – including Bren, Tony, Dolly, Anita, Jean, Twinkle, and Philippa.
No matter whether you’re revisiting an old favourite or discovering it for the first time, the new Dinnerladies show is set to serve up a hilarious night out packed with heart, nostalgia, and plenty of surprises.
Dinnerladies will take to the stage at Manchester Opera House on 29 January 2027 and run right through to 6 February 2027 – with tickets going on sale this Friday (3 July).
Emily Sergeant -
5th July 2023 
