Oldham Coliseum Theatre is set to receive more than half a million pounds over the next three years as part of a major investment in culture across Greater Manchester.
Oldham Coliseum Theatre has been awarded £184,000 a year for the next three years through Greater Manchester’s Culture Fund.
The funding forms part of a £15 million investment in culture across Greater Manchester, supporting theatres and cultural organisations across all ten boroughs.
The long-term funding comes as the Coliseum works towards the transformation and reopening of its historic theatre building.
Martina Murphy, CEO of Oldham Coliseum Theatre, said: “We’re delighted that Oldham Coliseum will receive £184,000 a year through Greater Manchester’s Culture Fund for the next three years.
“This investment is an important vote of confidence in the Coliseum, in Oldham and in the role that culture can play in the future of our town.”
The Coliseum’s ambitions extend beyond simply reopening its building, with the organisation aiming to strengthen its links with communities across the borough and provide opportunities for young people and local artists.
“As we work towards reopening the Coliseum, our ambition goes far beyond reopening a building,” Martina said.
“We want to rebuild a theatre that is deeply connected to the people of Oldham – creating brilliant cultural experiences, opportunities for young people and local artists, and ensuring that people from across the borough can see themselves reflected in what happens on our stages.”
The funding will also help the Coliseum continue delivering cultural activity in communities while work takes place on its building.
Martina said there was “an enormous amount happening in Oldham over the next few years”, with culture playing an important role in the town’s wider regeneration.
“This long-term support from GMCA gives us greater stability as we plan for that future and continue taking the Coliseum out into communities while our building is being transformed,” she said.
The funding announcement comes during Oldham’s year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture, with a programme of events and cultural activity taking place throughout 2026.
The Coliseum is continuing to develop its programme during the transformation, including its new production of Macbeth, directed by Creative Director Nick Bagnall.
Martina added: “We’re incredibly grateful to GMCA for continuing to back the Coliseum and, most importantly, for recognising that people should be able to experience great culture close to home.
“The funding will help us continue building strong relationships with our communities, supporting artists and young people, and bringing brilliant cultural experiences to people across Oldham while our building is transformed.
“With Oldham also celebrating its year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture, there’s lots to look forward to.”
The Greater Manchester Culture Fund is providing investment to cultural organisations across all ten Greater Manchester boroughs over the next three years.
For details of Oldham Coliseum’s current programme, including Macbeth, visit: https://coliseum.org.uk
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