Hackney Empire shuts ‘to reflect’
London’s flagship variety theatre, the Hackney Empire, is to close for several months while it looks at its financial situation.
It will shut its doors when the Christmas pantomime ends in January.
A theatre spokesman said: “We hope it will be a momentary pause in a long and glorious history.”
Hackney Council said: “The Hackney Empire is a much loved icon and is at the heart of our borough’s cultural life.
“Hackney Council will continue to support the empire as we always have.”
The closure was not forced on us and we are confident it will not be permanent
“Hackney Council and the arts council are working together to provide a package of support to ensure the Hackney Empire is able to recover from these difficulties and return to a full programme as soon as practically possible.”
“We are very encouraged by the plans the board has to resolve the situation.”
The theatre spokesman said: “The closure was not forced on us and we are confident it will not be permanent - just a chance to reflect.
“Theatres are expensive places to run. Our balance isn’t quite right.
“It is important that we take stock and look to fix any long-term problems.”
September 25 2009
