Julie Hesmondhalgh joins Oldham Coliseum Theatre as guest curator

Julie Hesmondhalgh, the award-winning actor known for Coronation Street and Broadchurch, is joining Oldham Coliseum Theatre as guest curator as it prepares to reopen after major refurbishment. The theatre on Fairbottom Street has been closed since 2023 when Oldham Council began a £15 million renovation project. Hesmondhalgh, who was nominated for an Olivier Award this year for her role in James Graham's PUNCH, previously campaigned to save the theatre from permanent closure.

She'll work alongside CEO Martina Murphy to shape the opening season, focusing on stories that celebrate Oldham and champion northern voices. The actress said she's excited to help create theatre 'of and for the people of Oldham' as the venue prepares to welcome audiences back. The reopening forms part of Oldham Council's plan to create a cultural campus in the town centre, aiming to boost creativity and opportunities for local residents.

During the closure, the Coliseum has continued producing theatre across the borough, maintaining its connection with the community. The autumn season will be announced in early summer, with more details about the refurbishment and reopening to follow. Murphy said Hesmondhalgh's involvement ensures the theatre's next chapter will be 'rooted in the place it belongs to' with working-class stories at its heart.