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Fringe Venues Close Doors Amid Ongoing Rioting

Many London theatres, including the Battersea Arts Centre, Arcola and Union, are closing their doors this evening amid ongoing riots across the capital.

So far no West End theatres have announced closures, although most are thought to be offering exchanges to audience members unable to travel due to the disruption.

Many fringe venues have been using Twitter to advise audiences of closures. The Union tweeted: “Having to cancel tonight's show, can't risk anyone's safety. Boarding up buildings around us. Feel gutted and sad and a bit scared too.”

Other venues affected include the Churchill in Bromley, King’s Head, Theatre 503, Stratford East, Landor and Broadway Barking. The Hampstead Theatre told Whatsonstage.com it plans to stay open but will reassess the situation again before tonight’s performance of Loyalty.

The Albany in Deptford, another venue forced to cancel this evening’s performance, tweeted that it had been “advised to close by the police”.

Staff at Battersea Arts Centre, near one of the areas worst affected by rioting, have been offering free food and hot drinks to those helping with today’s Riot Clean Up campaign. It closed early (at 4.30pm) in order that staff could get home safely.

Ticket-holders for performances this evening are advised to check with venue box offices before travelling. Those unable to travel should check with point of sale regarding refund and exchange policies.

- by Theo Bosanquet

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