Oldham Coliseum theatre closing despite a campaign backed by unions and high-profile actors

Oldham Coliseum is closing despite a campaign backed by unions and high-profile actors including Maxine Peake and Jason Manford.

Oldham Coliseum marked the end of its 135 year history with a special show featuring Maxine Peake and Christopher Eccleston.

The performance at the Greater Manchester venue, which opened its doors in 1885, is titled Encore, and featured script-in-hand performances of scenes and songs from productions of the past decade, including I, Daniel Blake and Aladdin.

In February Arts Council England (ACE) announced it would stop funding the venue from 1 April.

Oldham Coliseum closing after Arts Council England withdraws support
Oldham Coliseum to close ‘on its own terms’, says theatre boss

Theatre boss Chris Lawson said he is feeling a “mix of emotions”.

"In some ways I am pleased that we get to do tonight," he said. "If the doors are closing then it is on our terms.

"We will fill this auditorium with joy and togetherness.”

Despite the campaign - plans have been announced for a new theatre, reportedly costing £24 million, which is scheduled to open in 2026.

Mr Lawson says the show “sold out in 30 minutes and was pulled together in just over a week by the team”.

“Incredible, but I think it just shows everyone’s care and love for the Coliseum,” he added.

The final show paid tribute to the theatre’s long history including the actor Harold Norman, who died in 1947 after being accidentally stabbed on stage during a performance of Macbeth.

Norman will be “honoured appropriately” with a credit in the programme as resident ghost.

Petition given to Arts Council officials in plea to save Oldham Coliseum theatre
Final curtain call: Performance featuring Maxine Peake

ACE is investing £1.85 million in the borough and Oldham Council recently announced plans for a new theatre, reportedly costing £24 million, which is scheduled to open in 2026.

Mr Lawson said the fact the funding was going elsewhere was “extremely frustrating” but he appreciated the money “hasn’t been fully taken away”.

Salford born Christopher Eccleston joins Maxine Peake on stage this evening

Coronation Street actress Kimberly Hart-Simpson, who started out at the theatre says: “I spent my youth pretty much on this street, from the bars to the Coliseum.

“It has just given me a platform to be me, to learn what kind of artist I want to be, and to see brand new plays – and be part of brand new plays as well.

“It is gutting today but I feel absolutely blessed to have been a part of its history.”

Oldham Coliseum is closing despite a campaign backed by unions and high-profile actors including Peake and Jason Manford.

Other performers were there to mark the historic night.