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Feb 2022

Last Updated: 06/02/2022

Community

Leak at Harrogate Theatre causes last minute cancellation of Kinky Boots

by John Plummer

| 06 Feb, 2022

Harrogate Operatic Players says it is 'absolutely devastated' after its final performance of the musical was cancelled at late notice last night due to another leak at the Victorian theatre.

Harrogate Theatre with stands empty in the town centre.

Harrogate Theatre cancelled a performance of Kinky Boots at late notice last night due to another leak at the venue.

Harrogate Operatic Players was due to give its final performance of the musical, which has won six Tony Awards.

The show has taken place nightly in the town since Tuesday and had a matinee and evening performance lined up yesterday.

But the theatre cancelled the evening event at late notice, disappointing theatre goers, after a day of heavy rain.

The cast did come out to perform the finale to a standing ovation.

Harrogate Operatic Players posted on its Facebook page:

"The whole cast and crew are absolutely devastated, especially when their family and friends have travelled near and far to come see this show.

"We sincerely apologise to our audience this evening for this inconvenience, we know how much you were looking forward to see us in action.

"For those who came tonight and gave us a standing ovation just for singing the finale number to you, thank you so much for your positive reaction, seeing you all up on your feet and dancing made us feel like we had 100% support behind us."

Second recent leak

The theatre said on social media a leak on stage had made the venue unsafe and apologised to customers.

"Unfortunately an onstage leak has made it unsafe to continue despite the company and the theatre’s best efforts."

https://twitter.com/HGtheatre/status/1490050171597697028

It isn't the first time the Victorian theatre, which is undergoing roof repairs, has called off a show due to a leak.

The recent pantomime season was also affected.

Work to replace the 121-year old theatre roof has been taking place since May. It was due to finish in September but this was put back to March.

Comments on the theatre's Facebook page included:

"So gutted but also sad for the cast, safety comes first. You could tell they were devastated."

And:

"I really feel for everyone involved as I know how much the last night is looked forward to and enjoyed by all."