SOUTHAMPTON'S Mayflower Theatre will close its doors for the foreseeable future, it was announced this morning (Thursday).

Chief executive Michael Ockwell confirmed via a statement posted on the group's Facebook page;

"Today we announce Mayflower Theatre will be closed until 10 December. This has been an incredibly difficult decision to make, the Coronavirus pandemic has had a devastating impact on the theatre industry.

"The safety of our customers and staff remains my top priority and I do not believe we will be in a position to safely open the theatre before this date.

"I am working with producers to reschedule as many shows as possible (for) future dates. However, it is inevitable some tours will not be able to survive the break.

"We are also making some very tough decisions with our own operation and it is unlikely we will be able to offer Ovation, our restaurant service, when we return.

"All customers with tickets for shows, or bookings in Ovation, before 10 December will be contacted in due course.

"Please can I ask that you do not contact us but wait until we send you an email about your booking.

"On behalf of the staff here, I want to say a big thank you for your support while we have been closed. Many customers have donated the cost of their ticket and we are truly grateful."

In order to remain connected to its fanbase, the theatre has created a number of online quizzes for people to enjoy. They are available to play by visiting the Mayflower Theatre website here.