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Peppa Pig, Shrek, Brian Conley and Steve Backshall among suspended shows after Orchard Theatre in Dartford closed

14:59, 16 September 2023

updated: 15:13, 16 September 2023

Peppa Pig’s Big Day Out, Brian Conley and Steve Backshall shows will be among postponed events, due to the extended closure of the Orchard Theatre in Dartford.

The venue was forced to shut earlier this month after reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC), known as “crumbling concrete”, was discovered in its roof – leading to a number of September dates, including a Jimmy Carr show, being postponed or cancelled.

Peppa Pig's Fun Day Out has been postponed at the Orchard Theatre. Image: Orchard Theatre
Peppa Pig's Fun Day Out has been postponed at the Orchard Theatre. Image: Orchard Theatre

Yesterday the theatre announced it would remain closed for at least a further month, until the end of October, while the building is given a full roof replacement.

A statement from Dartford council said it was looking to find ways to “minimise the impact” and find “alternative ways and places to provide shows”, but all of October’s 12 events have been suspended.

They include Shrek The Musical, which had been due to run from Monday October 2 to Saturday October 7; Soul II Soul on October 15; Steve Backshall: Ocean on Monday October 16; Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out, scheduled for Tuesday October 17 to Sunday October 22; and Brian Conley: The 3rd Farewell Tour... To Date, listed for Sunday October 29.

The status of all shows is currently categorised on the theatre website as “pending”, with the theatre clarifying: “We're attempting to secure a new date. As soon as we know we'll be in touch by email.”

The joint statement added: “Exploring ways to get a performance programme up-and-running will take a short time so, sadly, we will be extending the formal suspension of performances at The Orchard Theatre until at least October 31.

The Orchard Theatre, in Home Gardens, Dartford has been forced to close after RAAC was discovered in its ceiling.
The Orchard Theatre, in Home Gardens, Dartford has been forced to close after RAAC was discovered in its ceiling.
Brian Conley. Picture: Steve Ullathorne
Brian Conley. Picture: Steve Ullathorne

It added: “Ticket holders should wait to be contacted by the venue with information about rescheduled dates or, where this is not possible, full reimbursement.

“There is no need for customers to contact the theatre at this stage.”

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