Octagon Theatre

The Octagon Theatre is a registered charity and a fundraising organisation, dedicated to creating inspiring theatre and delivering impactful engagement work in the community.

It is a regional producing theatre that makes bold, adventurous, and popular theatre of the highest quality, seen both locally and nationally. The Octagon believes theatre matters because everyone’s story matters. It inspires, engages, and entertains thousands every year through theatre and creative activities, contributing to a healthier and happier community.

The Octagon’s Creative Engagement department plays a vital role in this mission, delivering a wide range of community programmes, workshops, and outreach initiatives that connect with people of all ages and backgrounds – including neurodiverse individuals, schools, youth groups, older adults, and those with additional needs. These programmes aim to break down barriers, celebrate creativity, and ensure everyone can take part in the arts.

The Octagon reopened in May 2021 following a major redevelopment funded by Bolton Council, Arts Council England, and many others. The theatre receives public funding through Arts Council England, Bolton Council, and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority. In 2024, the Octagon won Medium Business of the Year at the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce Awards and was shortlisted for UK’s Most Welcoming Theatre at the UK Theatre Awards and Theatre of the Year at The Stage Awards in 2023.