Northampton's Royal & Derngate CLOSED following Government advice on coronavirus

A theatre in Northampton has made the decision to close after hearing Government advice about coronavirus.

Following Boris Johnson's press conference where he warned people to stay away from theatres, The Royal & Derngate announced it would close.

The theatre did not allow tonight's screenings in Northampton Filmhouse to go ahead and it has suspended all performances at The Royal & Derngate.

A message on the theatre's website said: "In response to the Prime Minister’s recent press conference about COVID-19 tonight’s screenings in Northampton Filmhouse will not be going ahead and both Northampton Filmhouse and Royal & Derngate will be closed.

"In light of the Prime Minister’s statement today we will be taking further advice and will release a full statement tomorrow which will clarify our position going forward.

"We ask for customer’s patience and support as we work through this difficult situation and would like to reassure everyone that at Royal & Derngate, the wellbeing and safety of our staff, artists and audiences is of utmost priority."

It is not yet known how long the closure will be in place for, but it is expected to be addressed in the updated statement due to be released tomorrow (March 17).

Issues surrounding tickets and refunds are also expected to be addressed in tomorrow's statement.