Redhill panto relocated after theatre closes over Raac

The Harlequin Theatre and Cinema in Redhill was closed on 26 September

A pantomime is to be relocated to a big top tent after the closure of a theatre in Surrey due to dangerous concrete.

The Harlequin Theatre and Cinema in Redhill was closed on 26 September following the discovery of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (Raac).

As a result, Beauty and the Beast will be performed in a purpose-built tent in nearby Redhill Memorial Park, Reigate and Banstead Borough Council said.

Performances will take place between 8 and 31 December.

'The show must go on'

Council leader Richard Biggs said further intrusive explorations would be carried out at the theatre following an initial survey.

"That is going to take a bit longer, but the show must go on," he said.

"We are, of course, disappointed that we are not able to reopen our theatre in time to host the pantomime, but safety first must continue to be our top priority."

The temporary big top tent, which will be heated, would more than match the capacity of The Harlequin Theatre, Mr Biggs added.

The council said it would minimise noise and disruption to local residents, while the park facilities would remain in use.

The council has also committed to seeding the grass in the spring following the 43 performances of Beauty and the Beast.

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