New Theatre issues statement after families told to leave performance amid panicked scenes

A Cardiff theatre has explained why a childrens' performance was ended just moments after the start. There were reports of children in tears at the New Theatre after families were told to leave the production of In the Night Garden five minutes after it started.

Some families were upset that there was no explanation for the abrupt ending, but now the theatre has confirmed it followed a phone call about what they have described as a "potentially serious incident".

They also confirmed that the issue had been reported to South Wales Police, and added that customers would be getting a full refund. Police say they have launched an investigation after a reported "threatening call" was made to the premises.

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In the Night Garden Live 2024 UK tour was in Cardiff over the bank holiday weekend as part of a 28 theatre tour of the UK that continues until September. The show sees Igglepiggle, Upsy Daisy, Makka Pakka and friends live on stage.

After the show was brought to an end on Saturday, a spokesperson for the New Theatre said: "During the performance of In The Night Garden we were alerted by telephone to a potentially serious incident. We immediately reported the matter to South Wales police and the decision was made to suspend the performance and to evacuate audience members."

They added: "Further investigation by the police identified that there was no risk. We apologise to customers who were disappointed and will be processing refunds. Given the bank holiday there may be a slight delay before funds are repaid by the banks.

"Customers who booked their tickets directly through the Box Office or via Trafalgar Tickets will be refunded automatically and there is no need for them to contact us. Customers who booked via a third-party booking site should contact their point of sale."

South Wales Police has confirmed that an investigation has been launched.

A spokesman said: "We were called to New Theatre, Cardiff on Saturday May 4 following a report of a threatening phone call having been made to the premises. Officers conducted a thorough search of the premises. No items of concern were found. A full evacuation of the theatre took place.

"The threat is considered to be a malicious hoax. Our investigation is ongoing."