Apollo theatre gets a striking new false ceiling as it prepares to re-open after it collapsed

 
A direct view looking up at the new false ceiling at the Apollo theatre
26 March 2014

This is the scene in the Apollo theatre today as it prepares to re-open three months after the ceiling fell in.

The terrible scenes of devastation which saw more than 70 people treated for injuries have been swept away and the Grade II listed venue redecorated ready for the transfer of the Royal Court’s hit show, Let The Right One In.

Set designers took the chance to use and decorate a false ceiling which has been introduced at balcony level while investigations into the roof continue.

New look: The temporary ceiling at the Apollo

It means high above the stalls, the stage setting of a Scandinavian forest becomes tree tops through with a starry sky beyond.

Director John Tiffany said: “It looks wonderful.”

And he is thrilled that the production adapted from the cult book and film will be made available to more people.

“It sold out so quickly at the Royal Court. I hate it when you create a piece that has that buzz around it and people can’t see it. This is fantastic.”

Walking wounded: A woman receives treatment
A woman stands bandaged and wearing a blanket given by emergency services following an incident at the Apollo Theatre, in London's Shaftesbury Avenue, Thursday evening, Dec. 19, 2013, during a performance at the height of the Christmas season, with poli

Theatre-owner Nica Burns, who is facing claims for compensation from some of the accident victims, said: “It is a spectacularly beautiful theatre. All we’ve done is bring out all the original decoration with great care.”

Ms Burns added: "Westminster City council has confirmed the theatre is safe to re open and we look forward to welcoming audiences back."

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