The Engagement Party at Queen Elizabeth Hall

Oldham Coliseum are back with a specially commissioned off-site production by emerging Greater Manchester theatre-maker Afshan D’souza-Lodhi. Inspired by the communities and people of Oldham, The Engagement Party will be performed at Queen Elizabeth Hall this February.

This brand-new show centres around nature-loving foodie, Zack and Sofia, a passionate young woman who loves the bright lights of the city. The couple first locked eyes with each other in a chicken shop in Oldham and now, with their engagement party looming, tensions are bubbling. As their relationship grows, so do their differences.

The audience will be invited to take their seats in a cabaret-style setting and will be greeted on arrival, as if they were guests at an engagement party. Seated at tables in the performance space, the lively drama will unfold around them. With live music and special performances, the show features a Community Company of Elders alongside a talented professional cast. Packed with comedy and camaraderie, The Anniversary Party perfectly captures the essence of Oldham – a celebration for the community.

As the live band begins to play and the guests find their seats, Zack and Sofia are nowhere to be seen. Positioned at the heart of the action, the audience find themselves privy to heated tensions and dramatic exchanges. Will true love conquer all, or will the couple’s differences drive them apart?

Creative Director of the show, Amanda Huxtable, told us,“I’m very proud to be the Creative Director of The Engagement Party by Afshan D’souza Lodhi, the brand new and latest production from Oldham Coliseum Theatre Ltd. It’s a big production and we are all going for it! It’s made with love in mind and all the heartache, questions and unity it can bring. Me and the team including our talented cast joined by a special community cast can’t wait for audiences to join in the fun and celebrations very soon.”