Award-winning theatre company ThickSkin has launched a brand-new venue in Wigan’s industrial heartland. The Engine Room transforms a historic mill into a hub for artistic innovation and talent development.
Located in Trencherfield Mill, the venue is supported by Forging the Future and Wigan Council. It will serve as both a creation space and performance hub, showcasing the best talent from across the UK.
ThickSkin will premiere all its productions at The Engine Room before touring nationally. Known for slick, stylish theatre created with world-class artists, the company promises local audiences high-quality, affordable shows before they hit the road.
Independent artists and artist-led companies will also be invited to develop and launch new work at the venue. With theatre, dance, music and art on offer, The Engine Room aims to become a cultural cornerstone for the community, including opportunities for local participation in creative activities.
Following the sold-out run of It Walks Around The House At Night, next up is Festive Treats at The Engine Room — four new short plays accompanied by mince pies and mulled wine this Christmas. Curated by Artistic Director Neil Bettles, the line-up includes Cold Saint Nick, a darkly comic play by former Bruntwood Prize winner Tim Foley (Electric Rosary).
Lisa Nandy, MP for Wigan and Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, says:
“I am very pleased to hear about the opening of The Engine Room, a new venue for theatre and art in the heart of Wigan. It is a great sign of confidence in our town and its creative talents that organisations like ThickSkin wish to base themselves here.”
Laura Mallows, Co-founder and Executive Director of ThickSkin, shares:
“The Engine Room exists to fuel creativity, collaboration and ambition. It’s a home for artists, audiences and the community — a place to see great shows, be inspired, and take part in creative activities. With a focus on nurturing new voices alongside established artists, The Engine Room aims to showcase the North’s creative excellence and position Wigan at the heart of UK artistic production. Here, bold ideas are made, shared and celebrated — building on Wigan’s proud creative heritage and shaping its next chapter.”
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
