CELEBRATIONS to mark the official opening of the new look Octagon Theatre took place on Tuesday.
The town's gathered at the Bolton playhouse two years after it went dark for redevelopment and then because of restriction imposed because of the pandemic.
It was 12 months ago the theatre launched its Octagon Future Fund crowdfunder appeal as it fought to survive the pandemic, which has seen some theatres fold.
Chair of the Octagon Board, Claire Moreland said: “Today marks a joyous day in the Octagon’s history and a day that we have eagerly been awaiting for over two years, ever since the Octagon closed back in August 2018.
“We couldn’t have made this reimagined Octagon a reality without the help and support from Bolton Council and Arts Council England; they believed in our vision for the Octagon, recognised how important investment in arts and culture was for the people and town of Bolton and have generously funded the project. Plus, all of our loyal supporters, patrons and every single person who has donated to our Reimagined and Future Funds – to every one of you a huge thank you from myself and the whole Octagon team.
“We are incredibly excited to welcome people back through our doors. The Octagon has been part of the fabric of Bolton for over 50 years and the newly reimagined Octagon will carry on that same commitment to deliver world class theatre and being a safe, welcoming space for the whole community for the next 50 years and beyond.”
The Octagon is now open and recently announced details of their summer Warm Up season. featuring a stellar programme of comedy, live music, new writing, play readings, family entertainment and more. Theatre goers can pre-book before and after show drinks. The opening of the Octagon's restaurant to all is due to be announced in the near future.
The Mayor of Bolton, Cllr Linda Thomas added: “We are so fortunate in our town to have a theatre of such ambition and reputation - a regional theatre that attracts audiences and artists from near and far to produce shows of excellent calibre that can equally inspire and entertain.
“My family, like so many other townsfolk, get so much pleasure from coming to the Octagon that it deserves the accolade of being truly the People’s Theatre. The Octagon is friendly, down to earth, intimate and does vital work in and with the communities of Bolton making the joy of theatre accessible for all.
“The people of Bolton have always cherished the Octagon and their support towards its survival during the pandemic is testimony to that. So on behalf of the Borough of Bolton I wish our theatre every success for the brilliant future it deserves.”
The Leader of Bolton Council, Cllr David Greenhalgh, said: “We are proud to have supported the redevelopment of the Octagon as a key part of our plans to regenerate the town centre.
“This is a first-class cultural venue that will bring visitors from across Bolton, Greater Manchester and beyond.
“Bolton has a long tradition of live theatre and I’m sure residents will join me in finally welcoming performers back to the stage.”
For the full Octagon line up visit octagonbolton.co.uk
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