Key Theatre, Peterborough, will remain closed until October 15 at the earliest, the owners announced today.
Landmark Theatres, who run the Key Theatre are looking at possibly switching some shows to the New Theatre, Peterborough, which they also manage.
It follows discovery of RAAC in the auditorium roof at the Key.
Paul Jepson CEO and Creative Director of Landmark Theatres said: “We are saddened by this discovery in our venue and this news is breaking at such a busy time in our programme.
“Having to close the main house at the Key will be disappointing to our audiences. Equally, we know that they understand that we must put their safety and wellbeing first.
Key Theatre, Peterborough, forced to close after RAAC found in roof
“We will work with partners and stakeholders to get this situation sorted swiftly and efficiently so that we can welcome our audiences back and continue to provide them with fantastic nights out at their exceptional local theatre.”
Landmark Theatres says the closure is only affecting programming in the main auditorium and all other spaces including the studio theatre, box office, offices, spires room, swan room and Chalkboard Tea Room and Bistro are unaffected and safe to occupy.
Their statement said: “It is with deepest regret that Landmark Theatres announces that the main auditorium at the Key Theatre is to be temporarily closed with immediate effect due to the discovery of Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC).
“This closure is in line with recent government health and safety guidance around this material.
“Our landlords Peterborough City Council are urgently surveying and identifying remedial works required however at this stage we don’t know the precise scope that this work will entail.
“Whilst this is established, we have taken the decision to remain closed until 15th October 2023.
“We will release further updates on this matter as soon as the information is available.”
The statement added: “We have over 400 young people attending Kindred Youth Theatre each week and we will be working to ensure that these activities go ahead without interruption.
“Our planned work in schools and with community partners will also progress across this period as planned.
“Bookers for shows and events taking place until 15th October will be contacted in the coming days.
“Where possible we are rescheduling or moving events to our other venue, the New Theatre Peterborough. The programme in the Studio at the Key will continue uninterrupted. We ask our customers for their patience during this time as we work through contacting people with the earliest bookings first.”
