Free things to do in Manchester this week ft. Rainbow of Cultures + more

The Co-operative Movement in Ireland at Irish World Heritage Centre
For our first pick of free things to do in Manchester this week, we’ve got this talk and book launch at the Irish World Heritage Centre. Writer Patrick Doyle will be talking about his new book Civilizing Rural Ireland, which is a history of the Co-operative movement in Ireland. Doyle is a research fellow at the University of Manchester, and he will be talking about the extensive research that he poured into his debut book.
Tue 19 Feb, Irish World Heritage Centre, 1 Irish Town Way, Manchester, M8 0AE, 7pm – 8.30pm, www.eventbrite.co.uk

Rainbow of Cultures at Manchester Academy
Manchester Academy hosts this celebration of the many cultures of Malaysia on Wednesday, shedding light on a multifaith, multiracial country through its food and culture. This small festival features live performances including dance, music and flag demonstrations. It also offers a series of craft workshops alongside delicious street food from all over Malaysia., rounding out a packed afternoon of art and activities.
Wed 20 Feb, Manchester Academy, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PR, 4.30pm – 8pm, www.eventbrite.co.uk

Peter Fleming and Gloria Hole at Tribeca
Village bar Tribeca’s free comedy night returns this Wednesday evening with a double-preview: Two hour-long comedy shows back to back from comedians preparing for this summer’s Edinburgh festival. First up is Peter Fleming, a character creation from comedian Tom Burgess, a children’s television pioneer in the model of Oliver Postgate who cuts a tragic figure as he tries to recreate his screen classics on stage. He’s accompanied on the night by drag queen Gloria Hole, who’ll be bringing her live panel show The Clinic to the stage with the aid of comedian guests.
Wed 20 Feb, Tribeca, 50 Sackville Street, Manchester, M1 3WF, 7pm – 10.30pm, www.facebook.com

Facing Out Exhibition Opening at The Whitworth (pictured)
The Whitworth launches its latest exhibition this Thursday evening, a touching exhibition in conjunction with The Christie, displaying portraits of people living with the after-affects of facial cancer. These people have been captured by artist and art for health advocate Lucy Burscough, who uses the medium to delve deep into her subject’s life stories, producing intimate, defiant portraits. This launch event will feature speeches form contributors, as well as a live performance from singer Monica Ward backed by the Chemo-thumpers choir. You’ll also get an opportunity to find out about the work done by charity Maggie’s, who run cancer support centres up and down the country. The exhibition runs until June.
Thu 21 Feb, The Whitworth, Oxford Road, Manchester, M15 6ER, 6pm – 9pm, www.facebook.com