Peterborough theatre plans for ‘biggest Christmas ever’ as it targets November reopening

Peterborough’s New Theatre will remain closed until November 19 - but will be back in time for panto to make it a Christmas to remember and kickstart a star-studded 2021 season.
New Theatre, in Broadway, PeterboroughNew Theatre, in Broadway, Peterborough
New Theatre, in Broadway, Peterborough

Closed since March, the theatre on Broadway had tentatively earmarked July 4 as a potential reopening date. But with little in the way of guidance from the Government, David Hutchinson CEO of Selladoor - which only took over the running of the theatre in September - said putting the opening back towards the end of the year was in everyone’s best interest.

“It’s been a very difficult decision to take to extend the temporary closure of the New Theatre until November but the safety of our staff, audiences and visiting companies is of paramount,” he said.

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“There is currently limited information from the Government on their strategy on how and when theatres may be able to reopen and although we have been working hard with our industry sector colleagues and advice bodies to look at all possible scenarios, we believe that taking this decision now gives us the right amount of time to carefully look at best practice and to consider all government advice and requirements once they are issued before we reopen.”

That scenario would see headline comedians Jimmy Carr (19th) and Frank Skinner (20th) bring some much-needed laughter to the theatre, with Aladdin scheduled to run from December 12-31.

“November is where we feel on the current timeline we will be in a position to open - although everyone is guessing. A lot of people are excited about seeing those two shows, then we have panto and we will make it the biggest Christmas ever before kicking on and getting 2021 up and running with some fantastic shows,” he said.

To that end, Rock of Ages, Gangsta Granny and We Will Rock You are already in the New Year schedule.

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Selladoor has also postponed tours of all of its productions until next year - Bring It On and Footloose were due to reach New Theatre over the summer - but David remained optimistic Peterborough audiences would still get to enjoy them.

“That is one of the benefits of having touring productions and our own venues,” he said. ”Our audiences will get the first look at everything we do and we will definitely be bringing those shows to Peterborough. We had a really great response when we originally announced them so we will look to reschedule them.”

Despite the prolonged closure of the theatre due to coronavirus in its first year of operating, David said Selladoor remained as committed as ever to making New Theatre the success the city deserves.

“Long-term nothing changes, even though we have had this pause in the process. If anything our resolve is now even stronger. The response from everyone has been so positive and that goes so far in terms of morale. It is amazing the way people have been reaching out.

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“People can be assured we are going to reopen - we are making sure that when we open the doors it will be in the safest and most positive way. We are looking to the future and people can help by buying tickets now in advance.

“We are fast approaching our first full year as operators of this wonderful venue and in this time have developed a strong, supportive and loyal audience in Peterborough and the surrounding area. However, more than ever, we need the continued support of the local community at this challenging time.”

Stuart Shanks, director of venues, added “It’s heart-breaking to have to extend the temporary closure of our theatres until the autumn, however, the safety of our audiences, colleagues and visiting companies is paramount.

“Having worked with the industry sector and considered all government advice and social distancing requirements we don’t feel we will be able to reopen until November and therefore have been forced to make this regrettable decision.

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“Theatres across the country are the lifeblood of communities, we need each other now more than ever; and we hope that our loyal audiences will continue to support us, We cannot wait to welcome our audiences back into our foyers, bars and auditoria just in time to enjoy a wonderful pantomime season.”