Old Vic Theatre matinee evacuated after security alert

At 2.38pm today the Met Police were called to the Cut at Waterloo after a report of a security alert at the theatre.

Audiences, who were watching a performance of Woyzeck, said the performance was halted and the cast left the stage before theatre staff told patrons they had to leave the building.

People were evacuated to the nearby Imperial War Museum Gardens, where the cast also congregated.

After two hours, the security threat was lifted, but the performance was cancelled.

Been evacuated from the Old Vic theatre in the middle of the performance. Was scary, but now we're chilling in the park with John Boyega.

— Ben Williams (@benuu) May 27, 2017

Theatregoers took to Twitter to applaud the professionalism and focus of the theatre staff. Pubs and bars in the area were also evacuated.

The Old Vic Theatre tweeted that the evacuation had been a precaution and following advice from the police, this evening's performance would go ahead.

Patrons from the matinee this afternoon were advised to contact their original point of sale to arrange re-booking.

Woyzeck is Jack Thorne's adaptation of Buchner's play, which stars John Boyega in the titular role.

Such efficiency and professionalism from management and the front of house team @oldvictheatre. Evaluating everyone within minutes #Oldvic

— Jemma Burgess (@j_kburgess) May 27, 2017

More drama offstage! All evacuated to Imperial War Museum gardens.. #oldvic including cast pic.twitter.com/w5JbruAKfQ

— Rachel Griffin (@Carryonsmiling) May 27, 2017