Drunk theatregoers 'ruin' performance after 'verbally abusing' rest of audience

07 May 2023 , 17:17

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Drunk customers had to be kicked from a Lancashire theatre after causing a disturbance (Image: Rossendale Free Press)

A theatre has apologised after drunken audience members ruined a show for others.

The Bucap Royal Court venue in Lancashire was forced to remove a number of people from its performance after they became verbally abusive to others in the theatre.

As a result, the theatre issued a reminder to people to remain respectful and not attend if they're drunk or under the influence of "other substances".

It added they will not tolerate any sort of abuse to members or let an evening be ruined by a minority, LancsLive reports.

A statement from the directors of the venue said: "We would like to apologise to anyone whose enjoyment was spoilt last night by the actions of a few people in the audience.

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Customers at the Bacup Royal Theatre were kicked out of the show for verbally abusing others (Google Street View)

"We are a community run theatre with everyone being a volunteer and we will not tolerate verbal or physical abuse towards people in the theatre whether an audience member or a member of staff and will remove people as necessary.

"We would like to ask people to respect your local theatre and not to attend if you are under the influence of excessive drink or other substances.

"As per all theatres and our terms and conditions we retain the right to refuse admission to people who we consider to be under the influence, and also the right to search bags on the way into the venue. Generally we do not have to implement these measures but will have no hesitation if we feel it is necessary.

Theatre bosses had to remind customers not to turn up intoxicated (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

"We work hard to keep the venue open as we think it is of a benefit to you all, and will not tolerate an evening being ruined by a minority."

Theatre staff were praised for how they dealt with the interruption to the show, but slammed the "shameful" behaviour of the offending guests.

One said: " We attended last night and had the "pleasure" of being sat right next to where they stood. You handled it well and the second half of the show was very enjoyable! Thank you!"

Another added: "Well done for evicting such people who have no respect for the team, performers or audience members. Shameful behaviour, rightfully not tolerated."

Sean McPolin