FOLLOWING Government announcements, Malvern Theatres will be closing its doors temporarily for the first time in more than two decades to help stop the spread of coronavirus.

Government advice on Monday evening was a step-change from what had gone before, with Prime Minister Boris Johnson advising that everyone in the UK should avoid “non-essential” travel and contact with others to curb coronavirus” as the UK’s death toll continues to rise.

Boris Johnson said people should work from home where possible as part of a range of stringent new measures.

And the advice has already had a huge impact on theatres throughout the UK

The Society of London Theatre and UK Theatre have announced the closure of all its venues with immediate effect, following the government’s press conference yesterday.

A spokesman for Malvern Theatres said: “It is with great sadness that we have taken the decision to close temporarily, but these are extraordinary times and we value the safety of our audiences, staff, actors, and performers, above all else.

“Ticket holders for cancelled shows will be contacted. Our online box office will operate as usual, and we appreciate your continued support throughout this challenging period.”

“Credit notes or refunds are available over the telephone. If you are able, please consider changing your ticket for a future show or gifting it as a donation to the theatre.”

But the theatre is fearing the economic impact of the temporary closure.

The spokesman said: “Like all independent traders, we fear this closure may hit us hard.

“Only one per cent f our running costs are publicly funded and we rely on ticket sales to operate.”

But Malvern Theatres is remaining optimistic and is looking agead to the future and better times.

The spokesman said: “We will re-open our auditoria as soon as we are advised by the Government that it is safe to do so, and we look forward to seeing you then.”