Bolton's Octagon Theatre has been shortlisted as the UK's most welcoming theatre category in 2024’s prestigious UK Theatre Awards, the annual awards celebrating outstanding achievements in theatre across the UK.
The other nominees in this category are Hall for Cornwall and Polka Theatre. The winner will be revealed at a ceremony on October 20.
The Octagon is currently on a winning streak: it was voted Leading Arts & Culture Venue of the Year at last year’s This is MCR awards, as well as winning the Best Customer Service Award at the 2022 Bolton Business Awards. The theatre was also shortlisted for Theatre of the Year at 2023’s Stage awards, where their longest-serving employee, James Whaite, picked up an "unsung hero" award, which recognises individuals or teams who have gone above and beyond the call of duty in their work in the industry.
The theatre has made several steps towards improving access to the arts, including a £4 affordable ticket scheme earlier this year, and Sharing Stories, an ambitious programme to improve children’s literacy and communication skills. There is regular provision for people with additional needs, refugees and asylum seekers, unpaid carers and young people.
Octagon chief executive Roddy Gauld said: “Our team really does care about giving people fantastic experiences, whether they are coming to see a show or taking part in one of our many groups, or if they’re working here on a show. So we’re delighted to be nominated as the UK’s most welcoming theatre."
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