Bolton's Octagon Theatre heads into its 60th anniversary season

Bolton's Octagon Theatre first opened its doors on 27 November 1967, and nearly six decades later it remains one of the best-loved producing theatres in the North West, with a distinctive shape that gave the building its name. In September 2026 it announced its 60th anniversary season, a milestone for a venue that has had an eventful few years.

In 2018 the theatre closed for the largest transformation in its history. Productions went out into other Bolton venues while the building was rebuilt with updated performance spaces, new participation facilities, a better front of house and expanded backstage areas. Funded by Bolton Council and Arts Council England, it reopened in May 2021.

Audiences have responded well. The theatre's 2024 annual report showed some of the highest attendances in its history, and the 2025 programme kept up the momentum with a mix of revivals and fresh work.

That year opened with the return of the acclaimed 2024 production of Animal Farm directed by Iqbal Khan, followed by Mina Anwar's revival of Shirley Valentine and a co-production of John Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men. Pride and Prejudice followed in June.

The summer also brought something new. The first AWAAZ Festival, held on 29 June 2025, showcased South Asian arts, and the Octagon presented a script-in-hand reading of Egging by Adam Kotwal as part of MACFest 2025.

The autumn and winter season included King Arthur from Le Navet Bete, the new comedy Black Tie Ball from The John Godber Company, the return of the Octagon Comedy Club and Su Pollard's one-woman variety show celebrating 50 years in showbusiness.

The anniversary season opens with Cinderella: A Fairytale, directed by Sarah Punshon, and includes the Bolton Trilogy, three world premieres rooted in the town. Sunset Boulevard and Educating Rita are also among the titles announced.

Full listings for the 60th anniversary season are on the Octagon's website, where tickets can be booked online. The theatre's kitchen and bar make it easy to turn a show into an evening out in Bolton town centre, whether you are a regular or visiting for the first time.