troublehouse are excited to share the news that they have been chosen as associate artists of the Oldham Coliseum theatre. The scheme brings with it a number of opportunities that co-founders Heather and Rick can learn from as they look to develop the company in the future.

As part of the Oldham Coliseum’s second intake of associate artists, the team will receive support and resources including access to rehearsal space and the use of in-house technical equipment.

troublehouse can also look forward to mentorship from Artistic Director Chris Lawson and Associate Producer Hannah Ellis Ryan as they work towards their latest project. Support will be avallable across various departments at the Coliseum including Marketing and Learning and Engagement. The scheme also provides opportunities to collaborate with the other associates; Billie Collins, Dare To Know Theatre, Maz Hedgehog, afshan d’souza-lodhi, Lauren-Nicole Mayers and Grant Archer.

Associate director of troublehouse, David Crowley said:

“Oldham Coliseum has always provided the region with exciting and powerful theatre – and for troublehouse to develop their own work as associates will be a huge benefit to the people of Oldham. Rick and Heather are very committed, extremely talented artists and I can’t wait to see the exciting work they will create.”

There is a sense of coming full circle for Rick and Heather as it was with the Coliseum that they performed in their first public performance whilst training at ALRA North in 2011. ‘Jane Eyre’ toured community venues across the North West in collaboration with the Coliseum during the theatre’s refurbishment. Directed by former artistic director Kevin Shaw the production completed its tour at the Oldham Library theatre, just down the road.

Former ALRA North tutor and associate director Paul Elsam said:

“I was lucky enough to direct Rick and Heather in troublehouse’s first production, and have cheered them on ever since as the company goes from strength to strength. I also have a particular affection for the Coliseum, as I made my northern debut as a professional theatre actor on that stage. This feels to me like an excellent link-up!”

And as for Rick and Heather:

“We’re very grateful to Oldham Coliseum for the chance to work with them as an Associate Artist. Oldham as a place has always meant a great deal to both of us and to come full circle to work with the Coliseum is an amazing opportunity.”