Oldham Coliseum reopening date slips
- Paul Genty
- Jun 5
- 2 min read
Oldham Coliseum will now reopen in 2026 - later than the original aim to return the theatre to activity for the 2025 Christmas panto season.
Initial construction work revealed more time will be needed to ensure the building is ready to welcome back audiences.
Councillor Arooj Shah, who is leader of Oldham Council, said: “It’s disappointing not to be reopening the theatre for panto this year, as it’s such a special part of Oldham’s festive season. But unexpected bumps in the road often happen with a project of this scale.
"Rather than rush to open before the building is ready, our decision to extend the construction period gives us the time needed to get the details absolutely right. It was clear to us all that if we opened in 2025, the experience wouldn’t live up to the high standards our audience deserve.
“We owe it to everyone to get this right. This is about securing a bright and sustainable future for theatre in Oldham and building something that will serve our community for generations.”
Theatre CEO Martina Murphy added: “We know how important the annual panto is to Oldhamers. While we’re gutted about the delay, we know that when the theatre reopens in 2026, it will be back with a bang.
“In the meantime, the spirit of the Coliseum lives on. As a company, we continue to produce exciting work across the borough, bringing theatre to communities and keeping alive our connection with audiences. Actress and "adopted Oldhamer", Julie Hesmondhalgh, who is a leading member of the Friends of Oldham Coliseum, said: “The Friends of the Coliseum are relieved that plans to mount the panto this year have been put on hold. Better to return with a beautiful, bold and glittering bang than do something half-baked in a building that isn’t ready.
“We’re excited for the future, and will be a key part in taking Oldham audiences with us, through a series of films and podcasts that will follow progress of the building as well as interviewing key players in the reopening. We are grateful as ever to Oldham Council for listening to experts in the field.”
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