Taking Steps out of the building...

We’re packing our bags, ready to leave our Fairbottom Street venue. The last panto performance is on Saturday night and on Sunday Coliseum favourite Ken Dodd will be the last performer at the theatre before we return in October.

We’ve been moving various props, furniture and other exotic theatrical equipment to the old library on Union Street since the summer. All the backstage teams will be working there, the wardrobe department will be sourcing and making the costumes for each production and technical stage management will also have their workshop there. The library will also be set up with a large rehearsal space. This is a fantastic way to make use of this beautiful historical building that would otherwise be empty.


The box office staff have been busy relocating everything to Unit 12 in Tommyfield Market where you’ll be able to buy your tickets for the new season. We’re making sure that the place will be full of eye catching displays about the theatre so you’ll feel at home when you pop in. It will be open to the public in February with the box office team ready to help.

We’ve also made sure The Grange Arts Centre is ready for opening night of Taking Steps in February. There will be a box office open from an hour before the show starts every night as usual so you can purchase tickets on the night. The Grange Arts Centre is easy to find too, located right next to Oldham College and Oldham Academy North on Rochdale Road. If you’re not sure how to get there just ring 0161 624 2829 for more information or drop into the box office at Unit 12.

A lot of people have asked me what changes will take place to the building while we’re out - a little worried that it’ll become super modern with glass walls and wacky designs. I can assure you that is not going to happen. If you’re a regular to the Coliseum you’ll already know that the auditorium can very often be either too hot or too cold so the main changes to the building will be to improve the heating and ventilation. The auditorium will also be entirely re-seated to make it more comfortable and more leg room with better views of the stage.

Until then, make sure you catch the pantomime before it comes to an end for another year.

See you at the theatre.

Kevin Shaw
Artistic Director