Rugby Theatre shut until further notice after government announces Covid-19 social distancing measures

Rugby Theatre has shut until further notice after the government urged the public to avoid public gatherings and observe social distancing measures.

Speaking on Monday, March 16, chair of trustees Debbie Hibberd said: "In light of coronavirus and developments today, Rugby Theatre’s trustees have decided that, with regret, the theatre will be closed until further notice with immediate effect.

"We’re sorry that we’ve had to make this decision, however we feel sure we're acting in the best interests of our patrons, actors and volunteers."

Earlier that day the theatre said, in line with the then current government advice, they would remain open - but that changed very shortly after the updated advice yesterday.

This means eight shows have been postponed and the screenings of three films have cancelled.

The shows are:

.Six Dead Queens and an Inflatable Henry

.Goodnight Mr Tom

.Mindgame

.A Slice of Saturday Night

.The Patrick Pearse Motel

.The Wind in the Willows

.A Bunch of Amateurs

.West Side Story

The films are:

.The Personal History of David Copperfield

.Emma

.Richard Jewell

Debbie Hibberd added: "We will refund tickets or exchange any tickets for a voucher or a ticket for any re-scheduled show.

"Please can we ask you to remain patient with us as we process these requests. All of our box office colleagues are voluntary and we will work as fast as we can to organise this for you.

"The trustees will be meeting in the near future electronically, when decisions on future productions will be made based upon information available."

For refunds and exchanges, contact the box office by emailing [email protected]

A spokesperson for the box office said: "These refunds have to be done individually - and as we don’t store credit /debit card details we will have to contact every one in person.

"As you can imagine we have a considerable amount of emails and calls to respond to so please don’t think we won’t be dealing with your request.

"Please be advised that our box office staff will start by contacting customers in show and date order, with 6 Dead Queens being the first.

"If you booked online or by telephone we have all your ticket information and contact details (as long as they’re up to date on our system) and box office staff will contact you.

"If you booked over the counter we will require your transaction number and contact details. Please email or ring the box office with these details.

"If you paid for your tickets on a debit or credit card: We will need to refund your money back onto the card you originally paid with. We could alternatively issue you a voucher for future use.

"If you paid cash for tickets: your refund will be issued in the form of a cheque or voucher."

Visit Rugby Theatre's website (www.rugbytheatre.co.uk) for updates.