Oldham Coliseum confirms it's re-opening

The Victorian theatre closed in March 2023

Author: Olivia DaviesPublished 9th Jul 2024
Last updated 9th Jul 2024

Oldham Coliseum is re-opening its doors in 2025.

The Theatre was forced to close in March 2023 after Arts Council England withdrew its funding.

Last night (8th July) a street outside the Oldham Coliseum hosted a special celebratory party featuring a brass band, performances, and dancing as they announced the highly anticipated news regarding the future of the historic theatre.

Actor Julie Hesmondhalgh and writer Ian Kershaw spearheaded the ‘Save the Coliseum’ campaign, as part of a dedicated group of theatre lovers from the Oldham community.

Julie said: "The public outcry that followed last year's closure of Oldham's beloved Coli, from audiences and artists alike, made national news," Julie commented.

"Since then, a dedicated group of campaigners have been working tirelessly to fight for the jewel in Oldham's crown to be reopened and restored to her former glory. It is because of a board dedicated to the continuance of the Coliseum's cultural offer, the passion and persistence of a dogged band of campaigners, and a council willing to listen to its citizens, that we've arrived at this point."

Ian Kershaw, BAFTA, Bruntwood award-winning writer and ‘Oldham-er’ added, "The legendary, internationally famous Oldham Coliseum is the town's beating heart of art and culture. Audience members from Oldham, and across the country, have joined us to urge the people in power to think again. This event is a celebration of a passionate campaign and marks an incredible moment in the fight to save our theatre."

The council is committing £10 million for the project

Oldham Council Leader Cllr Arooj Shah said:

“Oldham Council has listened to local people. I can now reveal that we will bring the Coliseum back to life in time for the Christmas Panto 2025.

“We are formally committing £10 million for this major programme that will see our famous venue open its doors to the public once more. We are working together for the future of theatre in this town. It's a big part of our plans - putting culture at the centre of transforming our town centre and creating a better Oldham for everyone.”

“Alongside this, work is underway to build a more cooperative, collaborative model for the building and for arts provision more widely across Oldham.

“The past 14 years have been challenging for councils and the arts sector alike. We’re committed to a better future and creating an exciting new model where we work closely together across the borough, share our expertise, and work together to provide brilliant arts and cultural experiences for everyone.

"The Coliseum will be centre stage of our work to transform the town centre, creating a better Oldham for everyone.”

The plans to bring the Coliseum back to life will be formally approved by Oldham Council’s Cabinet next Monday (15 July).

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