Peter Kay performs special fundraiser event at the Octagon with 3 performances in first Bolton show in 20 years

British comedy royalty and fellow Boltonian, Peter Kay, performed to elated fans in his hometown this weekend, playing 3 shows to audiences at the Octagon.

The special fundraising event on Sunday 10 December, sponsored by Carrs Pasties, raised over £80,000 for the Octagon, which as a registered charity, relies on public donations and funding to continue its creative and community work in Bolton and beyond.

Every year, the Octagon connects and enriches thousands of people through performances, participatory groups and education work. Proudly rooted in Bolton, the Octagon makes a significant cultural, economic and social contribution to the town and was recently named Manchester’s Leading Arts and Cultural Venue.

Currently selling out arenas around the country with his new tour as well as a monthly residency at London’s O2 arena, Peter took time out of his busy schedule to perform three intimate performances at Bolton’s Octagon Theatre, where the comedian attended the Youth Theatre as a teenager and worked on the box office.

Tickets were extremely limited, with priority access given to Octagon Members and Patrons who support the theatre. The majority of seats were then released exclusively to those who signed up to the Octagon’s mailing list and sold out within minutes. Audiences enjoyed brand-new material from the legendary comedian in a joyful and nostalgic show that celebrated the best of Bolton.

Chief Executive at the Octagon, Roddy Gauld commented: “We had an incredible day on Sunday with three shows by Peter Kay. Over one thousand people got the chance to be part of a hilarious, exclusive, and up-close performance with one of Britain’s best loved comedians, here in his hometown. It was a unique experience that Octagon donors and returning customers were able to book.

“We’re a charity and rely upon fundraising. Every pound allows us to create more magical, creative experiences on and off stage for young people and communities in Bolton and beyond. We’re incredibly grateful to Peter for his support and to Carrs Pasties, who sponsored the shows. We raised a total of £80k and a big thank you to everyone who came, donated, and joined a memorable event that people will be talking about for years.

“Peter was a member of our Youth Theatre before working in our box office, and his talent and passion for comedy was clear then. So, you never know who you’ll meet when you book a ticket or see a show here!”

Do not miss out on future Octagon events, find out all the latest Octagon news by joining our mailing list: octagonbolton.co.uk/mailing-list

As a registered charity the we could not deliver its vital community projects without the continued support of its funders and donors. Find out more about how you can support here: octagonbolton.co.uk/support-us