Following structural inspections, our engineers have discovered RAAC concrete in the Kenneth More Theatre. RAAC (reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete) is a lightweight concrete that was used in construction between the 1950s and 1990s. When this material is found to have degraded it must be replaced.
Following a detailed appraisal of the condition of the RAAC concrete we have had no choice but to close the theatre to protect the public’s safety. Engineers have conducted a detailed structural survey to assess the building and the level of works required before it can safely reopen.
They have outlined significant work that needs to be carried out to remove the RAAC concrete from the building, which means that sadly the theatre will need to be closed for the coming months. We have therefore had to relocate or cancel the immediate shows and events planned in this venue. We share in your disappointment that shows throughout the Autumn and Winter, and into next year will not be able to go ahead in the Kenneth More Theatre. This includes our beloved annual pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk, which we have had no choice but to cancel. We understand how disappointing this is, as many people look forward this as a traditional celebration with family and friends. We have not taken this decision lightly. Ticket holders will be updated and refunds for cancelled shows will be processed automatically. Please do not contact this Box Office at this time as they are working to process these transactions.
However – we have been doing all we can to keep the tradition alive for visitors, and we are committing to staging a Christmas show in the Redbridge Drama Centre. Although the venue accommodates far smaller-scale productions than the one originally scheduled for the theatre, it still will be full of fun, song and Christmas spirit.
We are contacting the theatrical groups and organisations who have booked the Kenneth More Theatre, and will offer alternative space where possible, but sadly we do not have a like-for-like venue in the borough.
We know this thriving theatre is as important to many local people, as it is to us, and we apologise to the theatrical groups and audience members for the disappointment this will cause.
We will work relentlessly to make sure our theatre comes back shining brighter, and we assure you that the works undertaken will mean we have a theatre in Redbridge for many years to come. Thank you for understanding that we must and always will put the safety of staff, performers and audience members first.
What shows and performance are affected at the Kenneth More Theatre?
All events scheduled to place in the main auditorium will be cancelled or relocated to an alternative venue where possible. The bar/foyer area is unaffected and will remain open for planned events and hire.
I have booked tickets for a performance will I receive a refund?
All ticket holders will be updated and refunds for cancelled shows will be processed automatically.
How will I receive my refund?
All payments will be refunded back to the payment card used to make the ticket purchase.
How long will it take for the refund to be processed?
Please allow the Box Office up to one week to process all transactions. Please do not contact this Box Office at this time as they are working to process these transactions.
If I have paid by cash in person, how can I receive my refund?
You can contact the box office to obtain opening times for the KMT box office to receive your cash refund.
How can I contact the Box Office?
Please do not contact the box office for refunds to your show – these will be processed automatically.
What other Christmas events are happening in Redbridge?
Vision is organising a series of festive events leading up to Christmas, including Christmas shows at Redbridge Drama Centre, Christmas Light-Up celebrations, Christmas Markets, Fairlop Ice Kingdom, and Santa-themed brunches and workshops. More information is available on the Vision website.
Up and coming shows planned to take place at the Kenneth More Theatre
Friday 11 October
Lipstick on your collar – Cancelled
Saturday 12 October
Red Jr – Stage One Dance Schools – Cancelled
Sunday 13 October
Voxx West End Vocal – Cancelled
Tuesday 15 October
LBR Child Friendly Redbridge Conference – Cancelled
Friday 18 and Saturday 19 October
Starshine Academy Dance school show – Cancelled
Sunday 20 October
Geoff Hurst
Relocated to Redbridge Drama Centre
Monday 21 to Saturday 26 October
Stage One Dance School – Cancelled
Sunday 27 October
Wrestling
Relocated to Town Hall
Wednesday 30 October
Tony Stockwell
Relocated to Town Hall
