A theatre in Romiley, Stockport is planning to reopen its doors in June after being closed for months due to RAAC.

The Forum Theatre was forced to close in September following an update to the government's guidance on dangerous concrete.

But following months of work, NK Theatre Arts – the company operating the theatre – has announced that there are plans to open the doors again on Thursday, June 20, presenting the musical 'Everybody's Talking about Jamie', to be performed by youth theatre members.

Stuart Dean, chair of NK Theatre Arts charity board, said: "Following discussions with Stockport Council and contractors Robertsons Construction, we are thrilled to be able to announce that we are planning to re-open the Forum Theatre.

"It has been a very challenging period for us and we would like to thank all of our members and parents for their unwavering support throughout this time.

"We are delighted to be able to provide clarity to the production companies, who have shown so much patience since September and look forward to them helping us to once again create a stimulating environment in which to enjoy live theatre, created by the people of Stockport, for the people of Stockport."

Lib Dem parliamentary candidate Lisa Smart outside the Forum Theatre (Image - Lisa Smart)

Work for the initial repairs are set to begin this week after Stockport council provided £300,000 towards the work.

But long-term repairs will still be needed to tackle the problem once and for all, which is expected to cost up to £2 million.

A report about the future work from Stockport council stated that a funding package will be needed to finance the next phase of repairs.

Cassie Briffa, who led the Free the Forum campaign to get the building back open, said: "It's heartening to know that the doors will once again welcome patrons.

"The Forum Theatre holds a special place in our community, serving as a home to numerous groups.

"It's especially poignant to see the children, who have been greatly impacted by its closure, taking centre stage in its reopening week. We are confident it will be a sell-out success for them.

"As we celebrate this milestone, our campaigning efforts for the additional funds needed will persist. We are committed to the long-term goal of a full roof repair, crucial for the theatre's sustainability."

Local councillor and Liberal Democrat parliamentary candidate Lisa Smart said: "I'm absolutely delighted. That we were able to identify the funding for this, and get the work carried out is a real credit to everyone involved. I can't wait to see people coming back through the doors, and for NK Theatre Arts to be able to continue their fantastic community work."

Cllr Mark Roberts said: "Our thanks have to go to all those people who have constructively worked behind the scenes and played their part to get the lights back on.

"I'm really proud of how our community has come together. I was never under any doubt that the show must and would go on and it's all thanks to the positive approach to tackling the challenge that we are where we are today."

Paul Athans, Conservative parliamentary candidate for Hazel Grove, with Cassie Briffa, a campaigner for Free the Forum (Image - Paul Athans)

Paul Athans, Conservative parliamentary candidate for Hazel Grove, said: "The loss of this community asset has been damaging for local people and also for the surrounding businesses that rely on theatre patrons.

"It's fantastic news that we finally have a date for the Forum Theatre to reopen. I want to personally thank all the local campaigners who've worked tirelessly to help NK Theatre Arts and to keep the pressure on the council to take action.

"I'm looking forward to supporting these businesses on Saturday at the Forum Festival and I'd encourage as many people as possible to attend."

The Forum Festival is set to take place at Romiley Precinct from 6pm, helping to support the theatre and businesses in the are have been impacted by its closure.

RAAC was first identified in the building in 2017, and this was managed by the council in line with industry standards until last year.

While the Forum Theatre was closed, local schools and community spaces stepped in to provide temporary accommodation for NK Theatre Arts workshops and performances.

The theatre company said it has missed out on thousands of pounds in lost income since the building closed.

Other performances including pantomimes, tribute bands and dance schools are planned to take place at the Forum Theatre, as well as visits from Shaun Ryder, Aled Jones and West End star Kerry Ellis.

Updated shows and events can be found on the Forum Theatre website, with revised dates for other postponed events set to be confirmed "as soon as possible."

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