Coliseum Theatre to close its doors on March 31

Arts Council England have pledged an additional £350,000-plus of 'transition support' following the news this morning (Tuesday) that the Coliseum Theatre is to close its doors on Friday, March 31.

Theatre chiefs announced in a statement earlier that the funding crisis has finally led to closure of the iconic venue which dates back to 1885.

The statement read: "Following the news on November 4, 2022 that Oldham Coliseum will no longer be part of Arts Council England’s National Portfolio from April 1, 2023, the Board of Trustees and Senior Leadership Team have been working hard to find a solution to this reduction in funding.

"However, the current financial situation is not sustainable for the running of a full-time theatre.

"It is with great regret therefore that we announce that we have entered into a consultation period with all staff and it is proposed that Oldham Coliseum Theatre will close its doors on Friday, March 31, 2023.

"The Coliseum is working with Arts Council England and Oldham Council to ensure a smooth transition period for the company, including funding to enable support for our workforce and honouring commitments to artists.

"The Coliseum has been at the heart of theatre in Oldham for over 100 years, with a highly regarded history in the industry dating back to the Oldham Rep which launched the careers of many famous faces.

"Many of the Coliseum’s staff have lived in Oldham all their lives and worked with the company for over a decade. They are the priority for the company at this time.

"All events at the Coliseum until Sunday March 26 will go ahead as planned.

"Ticket holders for all other events will be refunded over the coming weeks."

The statement concluded: "The Coliseum would like to thank its audiences, participants, sponsors, partners, funders, patrons, industry colleagues and friends for their support over many years."

For their part, Arts Council England have since confirmed the news of its transition support of £358,856.

An Arts Council spokesperson said: “Oldham Coliseum has begun the required consultation with its staff about future options, following their decision at the end of January to cancel forthcoming events.

"We understand this must be a very difficult time and are working to support the company’s board and management who are leading this process. 

"Alongside our current funding, which continues until the end of March, we recently agreed transition support of £358,856 to help give the company time and space to make decisions about its future.

“Arts Council England remains committed to Oldham and we’ll be investing £1.845 million in the town so that people don’t miss out on amazing creative activities.

"We’re working closely with Oldham Council on how this significant investment should be used to support the future of performing arts in Oldham and we are fully behind plans for a performing space for the town.”

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