We are delighted to have be awarded a grant from Theatres Trust which enabled us to purchase new LED Lighting to improve the quality of shows and attract more external shows. The new lighting has been used to create sell out shows across 2025 and 2026. Our lighting rig, a stock of 60+ conventional fixtures and 4 LED RGB pars, plus a 48 way dimmer bank, needed modernising for Saddleworth Players shows , concerts and […]
Review by Gemma Carter The Saddleworth Players have delivered a gripping and assured production of Wait Until Dark at the Millgate Arts Centre, a masterclass in tension that keeps audiences on edge from start to finish. Originally a West End and Broadway hit, this expertly constructed thriller wastes no time drawing the audience into its web. For those unfamiliar with the story (as I was), the plot unfolds unpredictably. A trio of criminals, sinister con […]
Dear Players and Friends, I hope you all had an enjoyable Easter and were able to make the most of the improving weather. Saying that, I know you’re a hardy lot—supporting the shows, concerts and films at the Millgate despite the driving rain and sub-zero temperatures. Back stage we’ve definitely felt the benefit of the improved insulation and radiators. I don’t think we’ve killed off any stage managers or prompts at all this Season. 2025-26 […]
Review of Once Upon a Time in Wigan by Mick Martin directed by Mark Rosenthall What a wonderful evening we spent watching this play at Saddleworth Players, located in the lovely Millgate Arts Centre. We were welcomed by friendly front of house staff and directed into the beautiful auditorium which is a complete sell out for the entire production. The pre play announcement was amusing and entirely in keeping with the era of the play […]
Dear Members, So —we have a sold out show on our hands! Once Upon A Time in Wigan by Mick Martin will be playing to a packed house from the 7th to 14th February. It’s a gritty tale told by a committed team with an amazing soundtrack. It has energy and heart and feels like a very fresh look back into the roots of the Northern Soul culture. Reflective of the time and absolutely in […]
are you good with numbers, systems and love the theatre? We are looking for a new volunteer treasurer Millgate Arts Centre is a creative community theatre that supports and develops all elements of the creative arts in Saddleworth. We have grown in the last 10 years and have plans to continue to develop in the next 5 years and beyond. To support and lead this growth as a community theatre we are looking to find […]
Two very different festive productions — Hansel & Gretel in Delph and Aladdin in Stockport — prove just how magical a first taste of live theatre can be. Ian Cheeseman reviews… My favourite thing about panto is that it’s often a child’s first introduction to live theatre — and a good one makes them want to come back for more. I’ve just experienced two fantastic shows, very different in style but equally enjoyable. Hansel & […]
Dear Players and Friends, In less than two weeks the curtains will open on Jessica Swale’s bawdy romp of a play, Nell Gwynn, which will be a feast for the eyes and ears as we travel back in time to the court of King Charles II and to the rough and ready world of the newly opened theatres. It’s a huge undertaking, a massive, talented cast and crew with music and singing alongside the drama. […]
Dear Players and Friends, Welcome back!Now that Summer seems well and truly behind us, it’s time to cosy up and look forward to evenings of entertainment at the Millgate. The dust had barely settled from our mad cap Dickensian romp, Bleak Expectations, when we began rehearsals for our first play of the Season, Waiting for God by Michael Aitkens. Those of you who remember the 1990s sitcom which ran for 4 seasons, will find some […]
Plays set in homes for the elderly have become almost a sub-genre of their own, and “Waiting for God” challenges the typical portrayals of old age. Diana Trent, played with bracing cynicism by Gill Barham, refuses to be a mere caricature of a dear old lady. Her sharp wit and dark humor shine through as she navigates life at the Bayview Retirement Home, alongside the larger-than-life Tom Ballard. With energetic direction by Verity Mann, this production promises an evening filled with laughter, emotional depth, and a refreshing take on aging. Don’t miss this captivating performance!