Motown The Musical 'abandoned' at Sunderland Empire due to mains power cut

The theatre issued a statement on Friday, October 25, after the show had to be stopped mid-way through.

Customers were then escorted from the premises by staff.

Motown the Musical opened at the Empire on Tuesday, October 15 with its final day at the theatre on Saturday.

The theatre advised its Friday customers that there were still some tickets left for Saturday’s Motown matinee and evening performances – but that any transfers would have to be made in person at the theatre box office from 12pm.

The statement said in full: “Following tonight’s mains power cut and show abandonment, customers who attended please be assured that you’ll be entitled to a full refund.

Saturday’s matinee and evening performances for anyone wanting to transfer into either of those performances.

“Any customers who can’t attend tomorrow and require a full refund are advised not to do anything at this time and will be contacted from Monday. Thanks for your patience.”

Earlier this week, a group of theatre customers told the Echo they were asked to leave a performance of Motown after singing along with the music.

Lesley Powell, 53, of Pennywell, and her family spent around £100 on tickets.