Contractors working on the project have stated that they need more time to complete the necessary building works, delaying the reopening of the popular venue.
Reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) a material used extensively in the 1980s due to its lightweight and cost-effective properties, was discovered in the theatre’s roof structure during checks last year.
A spokesperson for the Orchard Theatre explained: “The theatre was built in the early 1980s with reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC).
“At the time, this was considered a cheap and lightweight alternative to traditional concrete, and the theatre was one of thousands of public buildings to use it during construction.”
In response to the closure, Dartford Borough Council (DBC) and Trafalgar Theatres collaborated to create a temporary venue, The Orchard West.
This theatre which has a capacity of 1,091 seats and has successfully hosted a variety of performances, including West End productions and local theatre shows.
According to the theatre’s official website, performances will continue to run at Orchard West, with listings currently showing shows scheduled up until February 2024.
Despite the ongoing work at the original Orchard Theatre, fans of live entertainment in Dartford will still have plenty of opportunities to attend performances at the temporary venue.
For those holding tickets for postponed shows, the theatre has assured that all ticket holders will be contacted with further details regarding rescheduled performances or cancellations.
The management has also noted that there is no need for customers to contact the box office at this stage, and they will provide further updates in the coming weeks as the situation develops.
The most recent statement from the theatre reads: “Works are progressing at pace at the Orchard Theatre, although contractors have confirmed they need more time to complete the building work required.
“Therefore it will not be possible for shows to take place before the end of May 2025.
“Some shows will be rescheduled and others possibly cancelled. All ticket holders should wait to be contacted by the venue or by their original point of purchase, once decisions have been made.
“There is no need for customers to make contact with the box office at this stage and we will be in touch.
“We aim to provide a further update in the coming weeks.
“We thank you for your continued support.”
