New short film shines a light in celebration of the iconic Oldham Coliseum

'Our Sleeping Beauty' (True Love's Kiss) is a captivating short film celebrating the rich history of Oldham's iconic Coliseum

'Our Sleeping Beauty' (True Love's Kiss) - a captivating short film celebrating the rich history of Oldham's iconic Coliseum - is poised to debut in an exclusive private screening tonight (Wednesday) at Valentino’s in Oldham. 

Featuring a heartfelt poem written and performed by much-loved actor Julie Hesmondhalgh - and brought to life with enchanting music composed by Zoe Hodges - Our Sleeping Beauty is a collaborative effort, with Julie and Zoe also serving as producers.

The short film includes historical footage spanning the Coliseum's storied past, edited by Andonis Anthony and Grant Archer. 

Our Sleeping Beauty is not just a film; it’s a love letter to ‘the Coli', capturing its deep-rooted significance in the community's hearts and weaving a poignant tale of its legacy.

Our Sleeping Beauty also features an array of distinguished actors, all with a connection to Oldham, who rallied to preserve the theatre on Fairbottom Street.

In order of appearance, the actors are: Suranne Jones, Sally Carman, Paula Lane, Christopher Eccleston, Paul Hilton, Annie Wallace, Mina Anwar, Lisa Riley, Antony Cotton, Siobhan Finneran, Julie Hesmondhalgh, Sian Phillips, John Henshaw, Shobna Gulati, Jane Hazlegrove, Sally Dynevor, Andonis Anthony, Mitesh Soni, Maxine Peake and Kenneth Alan Taylor, plus the children of Blackshaw Lane School.

"The public outcry that followed last year's closure of Oldham's beloved Coli, from audiences and artists alike, made national news,” said actor and writer Julie.

“Since then, a dedicated group of campaigners have been working tirelessly to fight for the jewel in Oldham's crown to be reopened and restored to her former glory.

"She is not dead but merely sleeping, and the passion and dedication of those who love her might yet wake her from this extended nap!" 

Ian Kershaw - BAFTA, Bruntwood award-winning writer and ‘Oldham-er’ - added: "The legendary, internationally famous Oldham Coliseum is the town's beating heart of art and culture.

"15,000 of us have signed a petition urging the decision-makers to reopen the beloved theatre on Fairbottom Street.

"Please join us by adding your name to the petition and sending your kisses to wake her!” 

 A video link to Our Sleeping Beauty is available here for anyone to see/show, only after 7.15pm tonight.

In the meantime, for anyone wishing to add to the support for the campaign to save Oldham Coliseum, please 'blow a kiss' to this email: saveourcoliseum@gmail.com

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