MASH UP 2026: First Sparks and What’s Next

What happened in Session 1? 

A huge well done to everyone who joined us for the first MASH UP 26 session this week. It was brilliant to open the room, meet the group and watch those first creative sparks begin to fly. 

We kicked things off with icebreakers, imagination exercises and creative writing tasks, giving everyone a chance to loosen up, connect and start exploring the theme of ‘Firsts’. 

Already, there is a real sense of curiosity in the room. It was exciting to hear the first glimpse of your ideas, questions and plans, and we are looking forward to seeing how your work develops over the coming weeks. 

Missed Session 1? Please do not worry. We will make sure you feel settled in quickly and are brought up to speed with the plans for MASH UP 26. 

Need-to-know updates

Here are the key details to note before our next session on Monday 28th September.

1. New time for Session 2: Our next MASH UP session on Monday 28th September will now run from 2pm–5pm. This is due to an Oldham Coliseum production meeting that Segun and I need to attend that morning.

Please adjust any work or study commitments where possible so you can still attend as normal.

2. Bring something creative to share: For Session 2, please choose a piece of creative work you are proud of and would like to receive feedback on.

This could be writing, a poem, a script, a spoken word piece, a short film, a movement piece, or anything else that inspires you creatively and feels ready to share with the wider MASH UP group.

Sharing written work? Please aim for something that can be read or shared within approximately 10–15 minutes per person, so we have enough time to give attention to everyone’s material.

Upload deadline: Please upload and attach your material by Monday 21st September, during our independent creative session. Share your piece via our group email mashup@coliseum.org.uk so everyone can access it ahead of Session 2.

See you at Session 2

Thank you again for bringing your energy, openness and imagination into the first session. We are excited to keep building the world of MASH UP 26 with you.

Next step: Choose your creative piece, upload it by Monday 21st September, and come ready to share, listen and explore.

Thanks,

Lisa & Segun

MASHUP 2026 Co-Leads | Bloom Artists, Oldham Coliseum Theatre

We’re still welcoming applications from new creatives until Sunday 1st November. Visit this page for more details and to apply.

Questions? We’d love to hear from you. Please email: mashup@coliseum.org.uk