Thinking of joining us? This live entertainment is included in the price of your ticket!
The 2025 Live Cookery Theatre Lineup
In partnership with Makbul Patel of The Great British Bake Off, we’re hosting some of the region’s acclaimed culinary experts, including TWO Celebrity Chefs, MasterChef & Great British Bake Off Finalists, a Nutrition Specialist, and more…
SATURDAY
11-11:40 Tony Alberti (Celebrity Chef)
12-12:40 Dave Broxton (Mason Management / Ameven)
13-13:40 Gareth Mason (Mason Management)
14-14:40 Rob Appleby (Manchester University)
15-15:40 John Alberti (Celebrity Chef)
16-16:40 Olayemi Adelekan (MasterChef / Yummy by Design)
SUNDAY
11-11:40 Tony Alberti (Celebrity Chef)
12-12:40 Sean Soonan (Mercure Dunkenhalgh, Blackburn)
13-13:40 Brian Mellor (The Manchester Monastery)
14-14:40 Eva Humphries (Whole Food Warrior)
15-15:40 John Alberti (Celebrity Chef)
16-16:40 Gill Howard (The Great British Bake Off)
Further Information
John Alberti (Celebrity Chef) – John Alberti is a globally recognised TV chef, cookbook author, and food personality, best known as one half of the internationally celebrated The Alberti Twins. He first rose to fame on Love Island Season 1 and has since built a dynamic career combining culinary expertise with unwavering charisma.
Tony Alberti (Celebrity Chef) – Tony Alberti, another half of the former Alberti Twins, specialises in home-style Italian cooking inspired by family traditions. After entering the limelight after a run on Love Island Season 1, he has continued his career as a chef, cookbook author, and television personality known for intricate guides to authentic, time-honoured Italian techniques.
Olayemi Adelekan (MasterChef / Yummy by Design) – A recent semi-finalist on MasterChef, Yemi Adelekan is an esteemed author, independent business owner, and culinary mentor. As the owner of Yummi By Design, which offers private dining, cooking classes, and her own line of base sauces, Yemi has established herself as a leader in the culinary world.
Gill Howard (The Great British Bake Off) – Semi-Finalist on the 2024 Great British Bake Off, Gill was a fan favourite on the show, baking delectable pies, cakes, and pastry. Drawing inspiration from her childhood memories, Gill’s baking uses traditional styles merged with a modern twist, making her creations nostalgic yet innovative.
Eva Humphries (Whole Food Warrior) – Eva Humphires is a leading BANT-registered nutritionist and CNHC member with a delicious approach to nourishing foods. With scientific accolades, including a Master of Science degree and a Nutritional Therapy Diploma, Eva advocates a science-led approach to healthier and happier living. Eva performs two demonstrations across the Sunday.
Gareth Mason (Mason Management) – Multi-award winning chef Gareth Mason has spent 22 years perfecting his craft, cooking for footballers, billionaires, and prime ministers. Gareth excels in experimenting with flavours and cuisines spanning every corner of the globe.
Brian Mellor (The Manchester Monastery) – The award-winning Brian Mellor, Consultant Chef at a beautiful modern-day monastery in Manchester, is an acclaimed tutor, judge, and educator. As founder of the North West Young Chef of the Year and as an ambassador for Cheshire College South & West, Brian has guided and inspired chefs across the UK.
Dave Broxton (Mason Management / Ameven)- As the proud owner of Ameven By Chef Broxton and an Executive Chef, Chef Broxton brings a specialist flair to each dish he creates. Since the age of 13, he has honed his skills in the catering industry, working alongside renowned Michelin-star chefs Paul Heathcote MBE and Michael Canes MBE.
Rob Appleby (Manchester University) – As a Professor of Physics at The University of Manchester, Rob sets the stage for a unique, science-led approach to preparing intricate and detailed dishes. With accolades including a European Physics Society Prize for Scientific Outreach, Rob will be breaking down the physics and chemistry of cooking a perfect steak.
Sean Noonan (Mercure Dunkenhalgh, Blackburn) – Sean has years of experience as a Head Chef in various renowned establishments, including valuable years as a Premier Sous Chef. As winner of the Teflon Diamond Standard National Young Chef of The Year, and as Northwest Young Chef Semi-Finalist in 2019, Sean is an expert in utilising the very best in seasonal produce.
