Oldham Coliseum – fabulous news it will open again as a theatre!
Jimmy Cricket has welcomed the news that the historic Oldham Coliseum has been saved.
The theatre is due to reopen in time for the 2025 pantomime season following a campaign led by Coronation Street actor Julie Hesmondhalgh.
It closed last year amid a storm of protest.
Arts Council England withdrew its funding, citing concerns over management.
Meanwhile, Oldham Council – which owns the building – had described it as “no longer fit for purpose”.
There were plans for a new, smaller venue, but a group was set up to save the current building, a well-known landmark.
Famous funnyman Jimmy, who has appeared at the theatre numerous times, was clearly delighted when he heard that the high-profile campaign had been successful.
He said on social media: “What fabulous news today that Oldham Coliseum will reopen!”
Julie Hesmondhalgh commented on X (formerly Twitter): “Absolute moment of people power.
“Thank you to everyone who signed petitions, wrote letters, carried banners, never gave up.
“And thanks to those who listened and acted!”
Actor Les Dennis was among those who celebrated Monday’s news with a street party outside the venue.
Past greats who graced the theatre included Charlie Chaplin, Dame Thora Hird and Oldham-born Eric Sykes.
Also read: Stars come out for Francis House returns to Oldham Coliseum Theatre