Olivia Kershaw

I am a recent MPhil graduate of the University of Warwick, where I researched the emergence of Gothic in 21st century musical theatre. I have a varied background and experience in arts, cultural and social research, having most recently worked at the Institute for Community Studies. I am a Co-Director of the Ramsbottom Co-op Hall Heritage Trust, a volunteer-led enterprise which aims to restore a C19 music hall to contemporary use as a performance venue and community hub. As the project’s principal researcher, I am investigating the theatrical and social history of the building, particularly its ties with the English Cooperative Movement. This project is kindly supported by STR (2022 Grant).

Contact Email Address: olivia.c.kershaw@gmail.com / olivia.kershaw@coophall.com

Research Interests

Musical theatre, Gothic, 19th century music hall and melodrama, local and Northern theatre histories