'Key milestone' saluted as 'new' Coliseum theatre moves a small step closer

Oldham Coliseum Theatre Ltd has been confirmed by Oldham Council as the anchor tenant for a new theatre in the town, currently scheduled to open in early 2026.

The announcement follows extensive discussions between Oldham Council and the new Board of Oldham Coliseum Theatre Ltd (OCT).

This new Board was appointed following OCT’s unsuccessful application to remain in ACE’s National Portfolio from April 1, 2023, which led to the closure on March 31, 2023 of the building on Fairbottom Street and the ongoing redundancies of the Coliseum’s loyal staff team.

Oldham Council has previously begun developing plans for a new theatre in the borough, which will be located on Greaves Street as part of Oldham’s Cultural Quarter.

Construction of the new theatre is being funded by Oldham Council, which is planning to open the building in 2026 with OCT as its anchor tenant.

As part of the discussions, Duncan Craig, Chair of OCT, has taken a seat on the Performance Space Partnership Board - chaired by Fiona Gasper and including members from Oldham Council, Peshkar and Oldham Theatre Workshop - the Board is responsible for overseeing the design and delivery for the new theatre.

Recent discussions between Oldham Council and OCT have focused on the delivery of high-quality arts and culture to the people of Oldham, at a range of venues across the borough, in the lead up to the opening of the building.

OCT are currently exploring new approaches to programming, creative learning, talent development and audience development in Oldham, whilst building new partnerships that ensure the new theatre responds to the needs of Oldham’s diverse communities and creative practitioners.

Oldham Council has submitted a proposal to Arts Council England for the ringfenced £1.845m over the next three years – which would see OCT playing a key role in the delivery of the arts and cultural programme alongside other cultural organisations – and a decision is awaited.

Duncan Craig OBE, Chair of Oldham Coliseum Theatre Ltd, said: “My focus since becoming Chair in March has been on listening to the Coliseum’s many friends, partners, collaborators and supporters – and I’m delighted that our conversations are starting to bear fruit.

"This has been a very difficult time for so many people associated with the Coliseum, from staff and volunteers to those who’ve simply known and loved this grand old theatre. 

"My huge thanks go to Chris Lawson, the Coliseum’s outgoing Artistic Director, and the Coliseum’s departing staff, who have continued to work with tirelessly dedication in such trying circumstances. 

"My fellow Board members and I look forward to continue collaborating with Oldham Council, ACE, the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and others as we work together on delivering culture to the heart of Oldham.”

Emma Barton, Executive Director for Place and Economic Growth, said: “This is a key milestone in the future of theatre in the borough, ensuring arts and performance continue to thrive in Oldham, and ensuring that performers and audiences have a fully accessible, modern and sustainable new venue.

“The new theatre will revitalize Oldham’s cultural offer, create additional jobs and attract visitors into the town centre.

“It's on target to be open by 2026 – giving certainty to the future of performing arts in the town and building on our theatrical legacy – along with activities and performance to build and maintain audiences between now and then.”

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