Looking for something to do? Five events happening in Bolton this week

Whether you’re after live music, comedy, community events, or maybe a little bit of magic, here are five things happening in Bolton this week that are worth adding to your diary.

A Night to Remember: Motown Show

This Friday (July 3) Bolton hosts The Voice UK finalist Bizzi Dixon, along with his backing vocalists, the Motown Divas, and their “soulful vocal dynamics” as their high-energy show takes us back to 1960s Detroit.

With tickets priced at £35, the show is said to include a night of high-energy dancing and feel-good songs in two 50-minute extravaganzas featuring 38 hits from the Motown and soul era.

With an estimated run time of 2 hours and 20 minutes (not including an interval), the event will start at around 7pm and will be taking place at the Octagon Theatre.

The event organisers ensure that the throwbacks of Motown, as well as the nationally celebrated vocals of Dixon, are guaranteed to have you dancing in the aisles, stalls, and even down the streets!

Tickets are selling quickly, so make sure to head over to The Octagon Theatre website to grab yourself one if you can see you and your loved ones enjoying this guaranteed night of retro tunes.

Ben Hart (Image: Matt Crockett)

Ben Hart: The Labyrinth

If you’re in the mood for some magic, mystery, and wonder this Saturday, July 4, The Octagon Theatre has just the show for you as they present Britain’s Got Talent finalist and internationally acclaimed magician Ben Hart’s brand-new theatrical magic show.

The show, which is being promoted as a “funny, dark, and baffling” experience, promises that Hart will “read minds, manipulate reality, and blow your mind,” and we’re told that the production focuses on the themes of human choices, hidden patterns, and finding a route through chaos.

The show will run for 65 minutes with no interval and will begin at 8pm. A fair number of tickets are still available to purchase from The Octagon Theatre website and are all priced at £20, regardless of where they are seated.

However, please be aware that this show should only be attended by people aged 12 or older, according to The Octagon Theatre’s guidelines.

(Image: Newsquest)

Smithills Hall Garden Party

If you and your family are in the mood for a sense of community, a range of activities, as well as delicious food, all while experiencing a historic site, the annual Smithills Hall Garden Party is just the thing for you on Sunday, July 5.

The event organisers promise that the garden party will offer “fabulous family fun”, stalls offering artisan goods, games, face painting, children’s workshops such as circus skills, as well as live music and much more entertainment for the whole family.

This year, the party is collaborating with local tearoom Bake & Roast, who are said to be offering a “special summer handmade afternoon tea”, which you are able to book on their website. The afternoon tea costs £28.50 per adult and £16.50 per child; however, a £10 deposit per head is required.

The garden party’s special afternoon tea will include finger sandwiches, mini sausage rolls, canapés, a selection of homemade cakes, and a mini cream tea with a choice of tea, coffee, or a soft drink.

Entry to the event is free; however, charges may apply for certain activities, rides, and amenities. It will be running from noon until 4pm.

Abba – Thank You for The Music (Image: Agency)

4 – Thank You for the Music – ABBA

If you’re a fan of classics such as Waterloo, Dancing Queen, Super Trouper, and more, then you’ll want to get down to The Octagon Theatre on Thursday, July 9th to see the iconic ABBA tribute.

The international smash hit has been performing for 22 years and says that it combines the unmistakable harmonies, colourful costumes, and dazzling performances of its all-star cast to present a show like no other.

The event organisers prompt fans to join them for the “party of the year”, saying that you can dance, you can jive, and overall have the time of your life as they bring you all the hits.

The show, taking place at The Octagon Theatre, is set to begin at 7pm and tickets, available online, are £34 per seat.

5 – Music of James Bond by Candlelight

On Friday the 10th of July, Bolton’s very own Victoria Hall will be transformed into an atmospheric deep dive into the world of James Bond.

Starting at 7:30pm, the show is described as “more than a concert” and is said to bring together the music of Adele, Billie Eilish, Dame Shirley Bassey, Sam Smith, and more to explore the unmistakable sound of Bond.

Performed by world-class musicians and vocalists, every note is said to echo the sophistication of the James Bond universe and present the vast and unequivocal talent of The Great British Orchestra.

Tickets are available to purchase at xperiencelive.co.uk, varying from £45–£50 depending on the seating area.

Be aware, though, that last entry is at 7:15pm in preparation for the show to begin, so don’t miss out!