New £196,000 roof saves panto at Key Theatre after Raac closure

The opening weekend of Aladdin at the Key Theatre has sold out

A new temporary roof structure has saved panto season at a theatre currently shut over safety concerns.

Peterborough City Council spent £196,000 to get Key Theatre ready for Aladdin, starting on 2 December, after issues with a reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (Raac) roof.

Council deputy leader John Howard called it "magical" and thanked workers who "spent day and night" helping.

Cast members said they were "buzzed" to see the show go on.

The secondary roof system was constructed quickly to allow the theatre to safely reopen

Raac was discovered in the theatre's roof, which forced the 400-seater venue to close in September.

A "secondary roof system" was installed underneath.

The works began on 9 October and finished last week. Production staff have now begun their rehearsals for the pantomime, which has sold out for its opening weekend.

Paul Jepson, CEO and creative director of Landmark Theatres, which runs Key Theatre, said it was a "pleasure" to re-enter the auditorium after two months of closure.

Panto cast members Andrew Sharpe and Emily Tang are pleased the show can go on

Cast members Andrew Sharpe and Emily Tang, who are playing Abanazar and princess Peony in the panto, told the BBC they were "worried" about not having a place to rehearse.

"We are actors and are used to adapting to situations," Ms Tang said. "We just keep going. We are now looking forward to the show kicking off next week."

Mr Sharpe added: "Viewers are in for a treat. We are all passionate and pumped about the show and you can see it on stage."

Peterborough City Council said it would be "working on a long-term solution for the roof".

Mr Howard added: "This temporary structure makes it safe and usable right now. It's been such a quick turnaround.

"But we are looking at a complete roof replacement, which is in its design phase.

"Also, It's a double celebration for the Key Theatre as it celebrates its 50th anniversary this week."