Oldham Coliseum: Harold’s Eternal Audience

The Oldham Coliseum Theatre has been entertaining audiences since 1885—but one audience member never leaves. Harold, the theatre’s resident ghost, is so familiar to staff and performers that he has his own seat. He appears regularly, approves of good performances, and is considered as much a part of the company as any living actor.

The History

Victorian Origin

The Coliseum opened in 1885 and quickly became a beloved community theatre. It has staged everything from music hall to drama to pantomime.

Harold’s Identity

Harold is believed to have been a theatrical enthusiast in life—possibly an actor or devoted patron. His exact identity is unknown, but his presence is unmistakable.

The Theatre Today

The Coliseum remains one of Britain’s few remaining repertory theatres, with a resident company producing plays year-round.

The Hauntings

Harold

The Coliseum’s famous ghost:

• A man in Victorian or Edwardian dress
• He appears in the auditorium
• Watches performances intently
• Has his own designated seat
• Staff greet him when they feel his presence

Harold’s Preferences

Harold is a discerning viewer:

• He appears more during good shows
• Technical problems may indicate his disapproval
• Successful opening nights attract him
• Poor performances may result in his absence
• Actors seek his approval

Harold’s Seat

A specific seat is associated with Harold:

• Staff sometimes leave it empty for him
• Patrons have felt someone sitting beside them
• The seat may feel cold
• Harold is given his space

Backstage Activity

Harold ventures backstage:

• Seen in the wings
• Footsteps in empty corridors
• Doors opening and closing
• He seems curious about productions
• He may have been involved in theatre

Other Presences

Harold isn’t entirely alone:

• A woman has occasionally been seen
• Possibly Harold’s wife or a fellow enthusiast
• She is less frequently observed
• The theatre has many layers

Relationship with Staff

Harold is embraced by the theatre community:

• Staff speak to him
• His opinions are considered
• He is included in company lore
• New staff are introduced to his legend
• He is treated with affection

Modern Activity

Harold remains active:

• Regular sightings continue
• Paranormal investigators have documented phenomena
• The theatre’s repertory work may sustain him
• He represents the devoted audience
• He is part of the Coliseum’s identity

Visiting

The Oldham Coliseum offers year-round programming. Harold is part of the experience—and if he appears, you’ve received his approval.

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Harold loved the theatre so much that death couldn’t make him leave. At the Oldham Coliseum, he still watches every performance, still judges every actor, still occupies his favorite seat. The show must go on—and Harold makes sure it does.