THE Octagon Theatre is ensuring its audience continues to be entertained while they stay at home ­— while a new website will allow people to enjoy Greater Manchester's art and culture.

The theatre has gone online to provide activities for everyone to enjoy free of charge.

This includes quizzes, virtual StoryMakers sessions, daily BSL challenge, podcasts, Get Creative challenges and blog posts

Octagon Chief Executive, Roddy Gauld commented: “We’re all going through a challenging time as people stay at home, and at the Octagon we want to continue doing

what we do best, which is providing excellent entertainment. We think this is needed now more than ever. So we’re working hard to create content that people of all ages can enjoy

and we look forward to entertaining people in person when we re-open later this year.”

Artistic Director, Lotte Wakeham added: “We have put together a great package of digital content featuring a mix of fun, creative and educational activities that everyone can enjoy and

get involved in. The Octagon team are working hard to bring our audiences new content every week which can all be found at our website.”

All the activities are offered free of charge and can be found at: https://octagonbolton.co.uk/get-involved/octagon-online/

United We Stream will launch this week with live music and performance.

Performances will take place at artists' homes, gardens, or from selected host venues around the region, making sure all performances adhere to government advice around isolating, distancing and infection control.

Sacha Lord, Greater Manchester Combined Authority's night-time economy advisor said: "I want to keep our vibrant music and entertainment scene active.

“Over the last few weeks, I have been contacted by many grassroots venues, bar owners, artists and freelancers, and the main thing I've heard is how difficult this period is and will be for them. Many of them are in dire financial straits and at risk of never recovering.

“Together with the GMCA, we have been working hard to create opportunities and hope for these people, and I am delighted to confirm that what started as an idea last week is now about to come to fruition.”

The website can be found at www.unitedwestream.co.uk.