Toddlers were left “in tears” after being told to leave a theatre just five minutes into the In the Night Garden show.
Families were ushered out of the the Cardiff-based New Theatre with little explaination after stumping up to see popular characters including Igglepiggle and Upsy Daisy. The venue confirmed the panicked scenes were because of a phone call warning them of a “potentially serious incident”.
It was reported to South Wales Police who are now investigating what they describe as a “threatening call” made to the venue. The theatre assured customers of a full refund following the disrupted show, reports Wales Online.
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(Image: BBC)
In the Night Garden Live 2024 UK tour had its Cardiff stint over the Bank Holiday weekend as part of a 28-theatre tour across the UK stretching until September. The production features live performances from popular characters such as Igglepiggle, Upsy Daisy, Makka Pakka, and their pals on stage.
The New Theatre released a statement following Saturday’s incident saying : “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.
“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.”
(Image: WalesOnline/Rob Browne)
South Wales Police confirmed that an investigation is underway.
A spokesperson 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.”
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