Julie Hesmondhalgh announced as Guest Curator of Oldham Coliseum!

Julie Hesmondhalgh, who led the campaign to save Oldham Coliseum Theatre, is to help shape the artistic vision of the theatre in the role of guest curator.

Julie will work with chief executive Martina Murphy to help shape the theatre’s reopening programme.

Martina said: "We’re shaping what the Coliseum’s return will look and feel like – not just reopening a building, but setting the tone for what comes next.

"As we begin the process of appointing a creative director, we’re delighted to welcome Julie Hesmondhalgh as guest curator to help shape our opening season. Julie brings a depth of experience as an actor and writer, alongside a strong connection to the north. Her voice will help ensure that this next chapter is rooted in the place it belongs to – with northern and working-class stories at its heart."

Julie added: "What has always made the Coliseum special is the strong sense of ownership it engenders among its audiences, and this was at the heart of the Save Oldham Coliseum campaign: borne out in the determination and passion with which those audiences fought to save their theatre.

“I am really excited to be working alongside Martina and the team, and of course with the Friends of Oldham Coliseum, to help shape a wonderful programme of theatre, of and for the people of Oldham, in the lead-up to reopening, and when the beloved Coli opens its doors to audiences again."