The Mancunian Way: Oldham’s ‘worst-kept secret'
manchestereveningnews.co.ukLast year, Oldhamers took to the streets to mourn the loss of the town’s theatre, the Oldham Coliseum, after it was forced to close down due to a lack of funding.
But 14 months later they’re back on the streets for a different reason. The beloved theatre has been saved, with money allocated to building a new arts venue now going back into the Coliseum.
Actors, writers, councillors, residents, dancers and youth group volunteers gathered for a ‘summer street party’ on Fairbottom Street yesterday (Monday), to hear what has been called ‘Oldham’s worst-kept secret’.
Tearing up as she spoke, actor and campaigner Julie Hesmondhalgh said: “I have the huge honour to tell you that Oldham Coliseum, Fairbottom Street, will be open for the panto in 2025 - and for hundreds of years to come.” The decision to save the venue was actually made weeks ago - but nothing could be announced until now.
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