In 1987 the building was extended to add a studio theatre, originally called the Octopus Studio. In 1994 this space was enlarged and renamed The Bill Naughton Theatre, in honour of Naughton. In the late eighties Farnworth born playwright Jim Cartwright was the Octagon's writer in residence. His plays Two and Bed were premiered at the theatre. In 1998 the Octagon was refurbished using funds from an Arts Council Lottery award. This improved the theatre's seating systems and disability access, and allowed the construction of a new room for business hospitality, and a more spacious bar. In 1999 a financial crisis threatened to force the Octagon to cease producing its own plays and become a receiving house for touring shows. Local people founded the Support Campaign for the Octagon Theatre, and under the slogan "Keep theatre made in Bolton" collected 12,000 signatures and organised several support events, including a protest march through the town centre and two benefit concerts. Financial commitments were obtained from funders and business sponsors, and the Octagon's status as a producing theatre was secured. In 2016, the then-Artistic Director, David Thacker, revived Jim Cartwright's Two at the theatre, before staging Cartwright’s new follow-up, Two 2. In 2017 The Octagon celebrated its 50th Birthday, with a 50th anniversary season and birthday party. The 50th anniversary season included classic productions such as Jane Eyre (18 January-10 February 2018) and a Christmas Carol (17 November 2017- 13 January 2018). In 2018 the Octagon closed its doors until 2020 for a major refurbishment. Performances are still continuing but off site around various Bolton venues. The first performance off the Octagon's premises was the comedy Summer Holiday (31 May- 23 June 2018), which took place on the buses throughout Bolton. Notable performers Peter Kay worked in the theatre's ticket office. John Howard performed his earliest live shows at the theatre, from 1970 to 1973. Dominic Monaghan appeared in two productions: Annie and Fanny from Bolton to Rome and The Resurrectionists. John McArdle has appeared at the theatre and is one of the theatre's patrons. Sue Johnston actress who has appeared in a number of the theatres productions including "Two". Also a strong fundraiser for the Theatre over many years. John Saint Ryan appeared in three productions: A Streetcar Named Desire, Far From the Madding Crowd and Lass at the Man and Scythe. Tim Booth lead singer in the band James starred