News

The centrepiece of the building, devastated in a fire in 2015, will officially re-open to the public tomorrow. Its re-emergence is accompanied by a photo letter directed at the visiting US President, Donald Trump, reminding him that “difference is beautiful” and urging him to “build bridges, not walls”.

A partnership between Selladoor Worldwide and Blackpool Entertainment Company will restore the building, which has not been used as a theatre for more than 20 years. It will reopen as a receiving and producing house that will stage immersive productions. 

Gray, who was issued with a formal written warning two weeks ago over claims of inappropriate behaviour, has left his role as Artistic Director of the company with immediate effect. Actors Touring Company confirmed that the complaints amounted to “inappropriate verbal conduct” and that there were no findings of physical or sexual misconduct.

Cast members at Nottingham Theatre Royal’s performance of Titanic The Musical labelled two front-row audience members “ignorant” for watching the football on their phones and cheering during “the most poignant moment” of the lifeboats scene.

The European Parliament has rejected the Copyright Directive after its controversial Article 13 was criticised by campaigners for threatening internet freedom. The Directive had been welcomed by artists including Paul McCartney, and The Musicians Union has pledged to “redouble” its efforts to ensure the legislation passes when it is debated again in September.