CHRIS Lawson has stepped into the role of acting artistic director at Oldham Coliseum Theatre.

Chris, who has been at the theatre since October, 2015 as associate director, has taken on the position last month vacated by former chief executive Kevin Shaw.

As a theatre director, Chris has worked across the country, most recently opening Robin Hood and Babes in the Wood at Cast, Doncaster on November 30.

He said: ““I was pleased to have been asked and proud to accept the opportunity to lead the artistic vision of the Coliseum in the interim period.

“Our theatre is in the midst of some very exciting developments and I’m looking forward to working with the rest of the team here to continue and build upon our excellent work on stage and in both the Oldham community and the Greater Manchester theatre and arts community.

“Our recently announced spring-summer season for 2019 is a dynamic programme of new plays, musicals and contemporary classics that celebrate Northern stories and shine a torch on vital issues affecting communities across the globe.”

Chris’ directorial credits at the Coliseum to date include: Tom Wells’ “The Kitchen Sink” and “Jumpers For Goalposts”, John Godber’s “Up ‘N’ Under” and Stephen Jeffreys’ adaptation of “Hard Times” (nominated for Best Actor and Best Supporting Actor at the Manchester Theatre Awards).

He also assisted on the Coliseum’s productions of “Pygmalion”, directed by Chris Honer, and “The Pitmen Painters”, directed by Kevin Shaw.

In the New Year Chris will be directing the Coliseum’s forthcoming productions of Martin McDonagh’s black comedy “A Skull in Connemara” (February 22 – March 9, and Barney Norris’ multi-award winning “Visitors” (April 18 – May 4).

Chris has launched a number of initiatives and opportunities for theatre makers at the Coliseum, including programming the Studio with a focus on new writing and emerging artists; “Cultivate” festival of workshops, opportunities and industry insight; “Scribbles” writing group; “Scripts” play reading group; artist development workshops and the Regional Theatre Young Directors Scheme (RTYDS).

He has also developed a number of partnerships with universities and drama schools including Academy of Live and Recorded Arts (ALRA) North and local theatre companies, most recently naming Fine Comb Theatre and Rogues Bones Theatre Company as the Coliseum’s Associate Companies.

The Coliseum’s executive director, Jenny Langlands, has taken on the role of Interim chief executive.

Jenny said: “I’m very excited to be working with Chris and the team, ensuring we continue and develop the great work of the Coliseum.

“We remain committed to producing and presenting a vibrant programme of high quality theatre and have ambitious plans to grow our artist development programmes.

“Equally, our commitment to supporting community cohesion and social regeneration remains unfailing, and we will continue to deliver a range of trailblazing participatory opportunities across the borough to facilitate community engagement and grow participation.”

Gail Richards, chair of the Coliseum’s board of trustees, said: “We’re delighted to welcome both Chris and Jenny into these key roles - working closely with rest of the team at the Coliseum they will enable us to build on our strong foundation and move forward with our audiences and our many other supporters.”