Theatre leaves venue after more than 60 years

Actors have trodden the boards on the stage at Clare Street in Northampton since the 1960s

A theatre announced it had left its home of 62 years due to increasing costs.

The Playhouse Theatre in Northampton was based at Clare Street since 1962 but closed following its final performance in July.

The search for a new, permanent home is already underway, with temporary solutions being sought for the coming year.

Bob Entwistle, chair of the trustees, explained that the decision was made "with heavy hearts" and driven by increasing challenges including the cost of "maintaining an old building with modern safety requirements".

The search for a new permanent home for the Playhouse group is underway

The venue was previously a coffin storage facility, but after being converted into a theatre in the early 60s, it hosted several big names including Lesley Joseph and Alan Carr.

Productions will now be staged at hired locations and trustees hope to find a permanent venue soon.

Ben Knight, the new chairman of the group, expressed optimism about the group's future while honouring its past.

Mr Knight added: "Leaving Clare Street will be difficult, but we’re finding ways to carry our memories with us and honour those who performed there over the past 60 years."