Derby Playhouse reopens - for now

In new twist in the fate for the Derby Playhouse, the theatre has now re-opened two weeks before Christmas with a skeleton staff.

Two weeks ago, 60 staff at Derby Playhouse were told they were to lose their jobs after the theatre was put into administration after the opening night of its Christmas show, Treasure Island.

The move to reopen came after two former members of the old board, Michael Hall and Jonathan Powers, formed a consortium and put up £160,000 of their own money to ensure the theatre completed its Christmas run until the end of January.

Around 15-20 staff are working at the theatre but on different contracts to the ones they were on before they were sacked.

Many people have bought tickets for the show and many more have bought tickets to show their support in spite of not being able to go.

BECTU rep at the theatre Pete Saville said: 'The people of Derby have been very supportive. Over the weekend we collected more the £3,000 in donations.'

A Save Derby Playhouse website and fund have been set up. For more information and details of how you can help, visit www.savederbyplayhouse.org