No panto, no shows, as Kettering theatre to stay closed until next year

Fans of live theatre in Kettering will have to wait for another eight months for the town's 560-seater auditorium to reopen - including the town's star-studded annual panto.

The Lighthouse Theatre based in Kettering Conference Centre has announced that it hopes to reopen in February 2022.

As the coronavirus the pandemic swept across the globe, the last punters to enjoy a show at the Kettering venue saw 'Friends! The Musical Parody' wowing audiences on March 10, 2020.

The theatre has been offering a series of online experiences with comedy, dance, drama and music during the lockdowns.

A statement on the theatre's website said: "Due to the ongoing uncertainty around social distancing measures and venue capacity limits being lifted, we have taken the difficult decision to delay re-opening the Lighthouse Theatre until February 2022. We want to continue to deliver the very best experience to our much loved patrons and we very much look forward to welcoming everyone back to the Lighthouse Theatre in February 2022.

"We are working with our current show planner to reschedule shows into 2022 and would ask for your patience whilst we undertake this activity."

People who have bought tickets for 2021 shows that have been cancelled will receive an automatic refund. Anyone who has purchased a ticket for a show that has already been rescheduled for 2022, will have their booking moved automatically to the new date, and will be sent updated tickets.

Anyone who finds the new show dates unsuitable should email [email protected] with the booking reference for a refund.

Wellingborough's Castle Theatre reopened last week for business with social distancing measures in place, while the Core Theatre in Corby reopens this week for live shows.