2 weeks Ago
Visitors to Bolton can be assured of a warm welcome and now the Lancashire hospitality the town is known for is set to be recognised nationally. The Octagon Theatre , often described as Bolton's 'jewel in the crown' has been shortlisted in the prestigious UK Theatre Awards in the category of the 'UK's Most Welcoming Theatre'. The annual awards celebrate outstanding achievements in theatre across the UK.
The Bolton venue is one of just three venues, chosen from across the country, to be nominated in the coveted UK’s Most Welcoming Theatre category – with previous winners including Nottingham Playhouse, Leeds Playhouse and Storyhouse Chester. The Octagon (Image: NQ Staff) Other nominees in this category for 2024 include: Hall for Cornwall and Polka Theatre The winner will be selected at the UK Theatre Awards ceremony which takes place in London later this year, on Sunday 20 October. The Octagon has gone from strength to strength since re-opening following their re-development, after scooping the Leading Arts & Culture Venue of the Year Award at last year’s This is MCR Awards , as well as winning the Best Customer Service Award at the 2022 Bolton Business Awards.
It was also shortlisted for the acclaimed Theatre of the Year Award at 2023’s The Stage Awards, where their longest serving employee, James Whaite , picked up an Unsung Hero Award, which recognises individuals or teams who have gone above and beyond the call of duty in their work in the performing arts industry. The theatre has made numerous steps towards improving access to the arts, including announcing a £ 4 affordable ticket scheme earlier this year, and Sharing Stories, an ambitious programme to improve children’s literacy and communication skills. There is regular provision for people with additional needs, refugees and asylum seekers, unpaid carers, and young people.
Octagon Chief Executive, Roddy Gauld said: “We truly believe the Octagon is for everyone. From ensuring we have some of the most affordable theatre tickets in the country, our work with carers and refugees, through to working with families in communities across Bolton – we are constantly striving to include as many people as possible. “Our team really does care about giving people fantastic experiences, whether they are coming to see a show in our intimate auditorium, or taking part in one of our many groups, or if they’re working here on a show.
So, we’re absolutely delighted to be nominated as the UK’s Most Welcoming Theatre. My heartfelt thanks to supporters, audiences and our brilliant team, who all make the Octagon the warm and friendly theatre that it is.” The UK Theatre Awards is a key annual event in UK theatres calendar, with awards presented for work both on stage and off stage, including the coveted UK’s Most Welcoming Theatre Award and the Outstanding Contribution to British Theatre accolade, which is awarded by the UK Theatre Board.
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