BWW News: Stratford Festival Cancels Opening Night Performance due to Bomb Threat

Earlier this evening, the Stratford Festival's Opening Night Performance of THE TEMPEST was promptly canceled and audiences, staff, and performers were evacuated from both the Festival and Avon Theatres in response to what has now been confirmed as a bomb threat. Publicity Director, Ann Swerdfager released the following statement on behalf of the Festival:

"The Stratford Festival is saddened to announce that a bomb threat was made against the theatre tonight. On the advice of police we have cancelled tonight's opening night performance of The Tempest. To ensure the ongoing safety of our patrons and staff we have evacuated and secured all Festival premises.

Patrons, staff and artists left the theatre quickly and in an orderly fashion.

All ticket purchases will be honoured and ticketholders for tonight's performance will be contacted by the Festival.

Plans are in the works regarding the return of the Stratford Direct bus to Toronto this evening.

'We will make information public as it becomes available,' says Artistic Director Antoni Cimolino. 'I am sitting with Martha Henry who is holding Prospero's staff. She will work her magic soon.' "

More information to follow