Boarshurst Silver Band recently performed as part of the celebrations that greeted the news that the historic Oldham Coliseum, a vital part of the arts and cultural activity of the Greater Manchester town since 1887 has been saved from closure.

Over the years it has hosted performances from the likes of Charlie Chaplin to Macbeth but had been forced to close its doors following Arts Council funding cuts in late 2022.

Re-opening

However, thanks to tireless work by volunteers, members of the organisation and many local celebrities and politicians it is now scheduled to re-open in time for the pantomime season of 2025 with a cash injection of in refurbishment of £10million.

Boarshurst was contacted by actor Julie Hesmondhalgh, known for playing the character Hayley Cropper in Coronation Street and more recently starring in Mr Bates vs The Post Office.

The band accepted the invitation and performed to a crowd of local councillors, supporters of the Coliseum, members of the public and local actors, actresses and performers.

We felt humbled and were honoured to perform and entertain at a such a historical moment for Oldham theatre history, and we give a very big thank you for the invite and the opportunity to performBoarshurst Silver Band

Honoured

A spokesperson for the band said: "We felt humbled and were honoured to perform and entertain at a such a historical moment for Oldham theatre history, and we give a very big thank you for the invite and the opportunity to perform."