Economics

I was thinking about all the amazing artistic experiences I’ve had, and it got me thinking about one that I won’t have the pleasure to enjoy. Artist Anthony McCall’s artwork, Column, a six mile high spiral of steam rising into the Liverpool skyline, didn’t come to fruition, despite investment from Arts Council England.

For each stalled project like this, there are many startling success stories - like the London 2012 Olympics opening ceremony, masterminded by Radcliffe-born Danny Boyle.  If that didn’t show off Britain’s creative chutzpah, I don’t know what could!  

Liverpool has undergone a tremendous creative-led regeneration in recent years, what with the first Tate Gallery outside London, the haunting Museum of Slavery and the revitalised Liverpool Museum - not forgetting the Liverpool Playhouse and Everyman, now undergoing significant refurbishment.  It’s a markedly different city as a result.

Closer to home, Oldham has tremendous creative energy. Oldham Council, even in these austere times, views the work by the Coliseum and our wider family - Oldham Theatre Workshop, Gallery Oldham, Oldham Libraries, Oldham Local Studies and Archives, Oldham Arts Team - as vital to the town’s well-being, and we couldn’t do what we do without council support. 

This Saturday our very successful run of Blonde Bombshells of 1943 comes to an end. The play has had very positive reviews and wonderful audience feedback.  Twitter and Facebook - not to mention our lobby located audience comment book in the lobby, are a pleasure to read when you have a hit on your hands.  The success on stage comes from a committed production team and a ridiculously talented ensemble of actors / musicians working together.  This is made possible by investment from Arts Council England, AGMA, Manchester Airport, and the continuing support of Oldham Council.  

Why do they support us? Simply put, the Coliseum provides employment, skills training and development, enrichment and entertainment. We are very proud of that contribution – we employ people, generate millions for the local economy, contribute to inward investment and help to make Oldham a nicer place to live, to work or do business.  Arts minister Maria Miller recently reminded us of the economic benefit of the arts, and I find myself agreeing with her.  

But let a member of the audience have the last word – after all, we produce theatre in Oldham for them. This comment about Bombshells on Tripadvisor: ‘blown away by the talent onstage’.  Economic benefit aside, that’s another pretty compelling reason to do what we do. 

See you in the stalls,

Kevin Shaw

Artistic Director