Launch celebration to awaken a giant

THE Oldham Giant under construction

JOIN the celebration and enjoy a spectacular outdoor show to mark the opening of the Old Town Hall Cinema this evening.

After Oldham West and Royton MP cuts the ribbon at 7.30pm, a unique free family show, titled "On the Shoulders of Giants" will begin outside the town hall to be viewed from on the new public space Parliament Square.

Projections, giant puppets, acclaimed actors and aerial performers will feature in the event, which takes inspiration from the legend of the Oldham giant, Joseph Scholes, who will wake from his slumber in the crypts of Oldham Parish Church.

The story to celebrate the rebirth of the iconic civic building and the end of the town centre's 30-year wait for a cinema is written by Sarah Nelson.

Oldham Arts Development has woven together spellbinding light projections from Illuminos, a six-metre-tall illuminated giant puppet created by Handmade Parade, local actors and musicians - plus dazzling aerial silk performers from Upswing suspended from a crane high above the crowd.

As some of the first Odeon guests then enter the building to watch a film, the Oldham giant will continue strolling around Parliament Square with music and projections onto the Old Town Hall façade continuing until about 11pm.

Further events will take place throughout the weekend in Parliament Square - including an array of live music, street performances and movie-themed entertainment - offering something for all generations.

The public are advised to arrive early for the opening event and use public transport whenever possible.