ONE year on since theatres went dark, the Octagon today gives a behind the scenes look at its £12 million transformation as it sets the stage for its reopening.

The Octagon has released pictures of its redevelopment, with a date for the theatre's reopening is set to be announced in the near future.

It had hoped to raise the curtain on its multi-million revamp last summer, but its plans had to be put on hold due to the pandemic.

New look box office at Octagon Theatre

New look box office at Octagon Theatre

But now with the announcement of the roadmap out of restrictions, the stage is once again being set.

Octagon Chief Executive, Roddy Gauld commented: “After what has been a tumultuous 12 months, we are now excited to be looking to our future as we plan our reopening. The Octagon is an incredible creative and cultural hub for Bolton and we hope these first glimpses inside the redeveloped building will lift people’s excitement as we get ready to welcome the public back through our doors.

Modern auditorium at the Octagon

Modern auditorium at the Octagon

“The reimagined Octagon benefits from more internal space; is more environmentally friendly; has vastly improved accessibility; and enhanced customer and backstage facilities for everyone’s comfort. The building needed a new roof and major modernisation of its electrics and plumbing and I’m pleased to say is now fit for generations to come.

“This redevelopment wouldn’t have been possible without investment from Bolton Council and Arts Council England, other funders and the 12,000 donors who have supported us. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who has backed us.

“The pandemic has hit Bolton particularly hard, and the Octagon is now ready to play a leading role in our town’s recovery and future. We know people are looking forward to live entertainment and I don’t think the theatre could be more needed or more capable than it is right now.”

New Kitchen and Bar to dine and relax

During the pandemic, the Octagon continued to lead the arts and culture scene in Bolton after theatres closed on March 16 last year by going virtual.

A live Zoom production of Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream was staged and a reading of A Christmas Carol took place as well as a festive quiz hosted by Mina Anwar and much more.

And Creative Care Kits to support wellbeing for those without internet access were also delivered.

Thanks to public support their Future Fund public fundraising appeal has raised £84,697.48.

Back stage in the new airy changing rooms

Back stage in the new airy changing rooms

Artistic Director, Lotte Wakeham added: “Given that it is 12 months since theatres across the country had to close, it is heartening to be able to look back at what we have accomplished in such challenging and exceptional circumstances. From sewing scrubs for the NHS and lending our building to the rollout of the covid vaccine, to developing projects to support local artists, to keeping our audiences entertained with our online content, we tried never to lose sight of our desire to bring our audiences and our community together.

“After what has been a difficult year we are really excited to now finally share pictures from inside the brand new Octagon which will offer a warm and welcoming environment for the whole community. We promised you we would be back, and now the building is complete we cannot wait to open our doors and welcome you back in person to your reimagined Octagon.”

Studio at the Octagon

Studio at the Octagon

Leader of Bolton Council and the Greater Manchester portfolio lead for culture, Cllr David Greenhalgh, said: “The new images of the Octagon are fantastic and showcase to residents the excellent facilities waiting for them once Covid-19 restrictions are lifted. We are proud to support the redevelopment of one of Bolton’s greatest cultural assets which is a key part of our town centre regeneration plans.