Northampton theatre boss ‘overwhelmed’ by the goodwill and understanding from people during current crisis

Like other theatres nationwide, The Deco in Northampton has had to postpone upcoming shows due to the current Covid-19 crisis – all shows into the middle of May have been pulled, and most already re-arranged for later in the year, or next year.

Jill Roach, front of house manager at The Deco, says she has been ‘overwhelmed’ by the support of those who have been affected by the changes of date.

“Everyone has been amazingly supportive and understanding, and I cannot thank people enough for that, and for their support during what is an unprecedented situation for us all," she said.

“Our staff have also been amazing too – going the extra mile to the extra mile they so often go in normal times, dealing with enquiries, and making sure ticket holders for all shows we’ve had to postpone are informed about rescheduled dates as and when we do so, and how to get a refund if they are unable to make it later in the year."

The Deco is not currently operating an ‘in-person’ ticket-buying service at the theatre due to the on-going crisis.

“Obviously doing this is taking time, so if you’ve not yet heard from us, please be assured that we will be in touch,” added Jill.

“At the moment, all our shows have been postponed up to, and including, the first weekend in May, but this is a very fluid situation, and it goes without saying we will only be re-opening when it is declared totally safe for people to start returning to normality.

“The safety and well-being of our staff, performers and audiences has always been paramount, and always will be, as is being a proud venue for top class entertainment – and won’t we all be in need of some great entertainment when this current crisis has finally been declared over.”

The iconic Deco building was last year changed to 'The Old Savoy' - dating back to its original name from when it opened in 1936 as a cinema, The Savoy.

The Deco, which was the original cinema, will be changed to 'The Deco at the Old Savoy'.

The Abington Street building opened to the public as a 'super-cinema' on May 2, 1936, before becoming the ABC Cinema in 1961, which famously hosted The Beatles twice and The Rolling Stones.

For updates on changes to The Deco’s schedule, follow their social media posts, or go online: www.thedeco.co.uk.