Norwich Theatre Royal to screen the Queen's funeral
It will be free for people to attend
Last updated 18th Sep 2022
Norwich Theatre Royal has announced it will be broadcasting the Queen's funeral, free of charge, in its auditorium on Monday.
They've also rescheduled performances that were planned on the day of the event.
Stephen Crocker is Chief Executive of Norwich Theatre. He explains the decision: "I think for the whole world, the news of the Queen passing away last Thursday was was a huge shock, which triggered a moment of huge sadness.
"Since that moment I've been around our buildings, talking to our audiences, our staff and volunteers and I've been overwhelmed by a collective sense of loss and and sadness.
"I think Monday is the focal point for that grief and I feel quite strongly that we've always been here in Norwich, as a place of togetherness and collectiveness which some people really need.
"Our buildings are a centre for the community of people who are used to coming here and I think they will want that moment here.
"It's a very small gesture that we can make to support our communities."
Stephen also notes the decision is steeped in history and tradition: “Having the status of ‘Theatre Royal’ is not often resonant nowadays, but it originally gave the theatre a licence to bring people together in Norwich.
"For this monumental event for our longest reigning monarch, we want to provide an area of sanctuary and collectiveness in the city. We know many people will appreciate the opportunity to be together at this time, respectfully acknowledging this grief and national loss.”
The event will be ticketed, with bookings to be made online.
Performances of Les Misérables and Post Office Scandal at the Playhouse which were scheduled for the evening of the funeral will now be rescheduled.