The iconic Oldham Coliseum Theatre could face closing its doors forever after more than 135 years in the wake of planned funding cuts.

The Fairbottom Street theatre, one of the oldest still operating in Britain, relies on the support of Arts Council England (ACE) to continue to stage performances, including its hugely popular Christmas pantomimes.

However the Coliseum’s application to remain in the ACE portfolio for the next three years – a major part of its business model – has been unsuccessful.

It had applied for £615,182 a year to 2026, totalling more than £1.84m.

The decision by the Arts Council not to include the Coliseum in its forthcoming funding package throws the future survival of the much-loved theatre in doubt.

Arts Council England says it had received a "record-breaking" number of applications and consequently had to make "difficult decisions".

The council and Oldham West and Royton MP Jim McMahon have pledged to work with the Coliseum to find a way forward.

On Monday a protest by Equity members took place outside the ACE offices in Manchester attended by former Coronation Street star Julie Hesmondhalgh to demand the reversal of ‘devastating’ cuts to arts organisations – including the Coliseum.

Actor Maxine Peake tweeted that they "must save" the Coliseum, describing it as a "fabulous theatre that serves and represents its town so brilliantly".

It has been staging performances since 1885, and has seen major names including Charlie Chaplin, Minnie Driver and Ralph Fiennes tread its boards.

Artistic director at the theatre, Chris Lawson said they were "determined" to continue to deliver its programme of shows, and were "surveying the options available to us".

“Rest assured that we’ll do everything we can to help the Coliseum thrive even under the most difficult of circumstances,” he added.

Chief executive Susan Wildman urged people to continue to support the theatre, whether by buying a performance ticket or a donation.

However she added they understood the ‘pressures’ faced by ACE in supporting organisations across the UK.

Cllr Elaine Taylor, cabinet member for culture and leisure, said: “We’re saddened to hear that the Coliseum has been unsuccessful in securing funding from the Arts Council this round.

“The Coliseum is iconic in Oldham and is so important to the arts and culture offering of the town.

“From theatrical, musical and comedic performances to family pantomimes and activities, the Coliseum’s contribution is widely recognised by the council and Oldham residents, and its varied programme is much-loved by our communities and across Greater Manchester.

“We will work with the Coliseum and support the board as they look at applying for transition funding.”

Jim McMahon MP said he was "disappointed" with the announcement that the Oldham Coliseum would not be receiving funding.

“My thoughts are with those who had their jobs put at risk as a result of this decision,” he added.

“Theatre, art and culture has the power to bring us joy, challenge our ideas and reshape how we think about society. It’s something that should be open to everyone regardless of where they live and how much money they make.

“That’s why it’s so disappointing that ACE have decided to withhold funding from an area like Oldham that is a ‘Levelling-Up’ area for culture and choose to put a theatre that has been at the heart of Oldham for 135 years into turmoil.”

He added he would be meeting with the theatre’s management and Equity union to discuss the situation.

Arts Council England said: “This year, Arts Council England, received a record-breaking number of applications to our 2023-26 Investment Programme, many of them good.

“As a result, we have had to make difficult decisions.

“We really value the work of Oldham Coliseum Theatre, and have supported it through our funding programmes over a long period of time.

“We’re committed to supporting the cultural offering in Oldham, and are working with Oldham council on development opportunities for the town.”