CAMPAIGNERS battling on to ensure the future of the Thameside Theatre have been told the venue is now planning a programme of shows up to the end of March 2027.

The theatre has long been under threat as part of a cost-saving initiative that has been a hot topic for several years now. A local community-consortium wanting to take over the venue continues to be involved in talks with the council about the Thameside's future.

The council's cabinet was due to hear a report on what is happening to the theatre and the other facilities within the Thameside complex on Orsett Road in Grays, but it was not on the agenda. It's not yet known if it will appear at next month's cabinet, due to meet on 17 September.

However, there is interim cheer in today's announcement (Friday, 22 August) with Cllr John Kent, cabinet member for sustainability, art, culture and heritage welcoming news that the Thameside will 'remain a haven for arts, culture entertainment and music in the borough until at least the end March 2027'.

The announcement today does hint that there was a possibility that this year's panto, The New Adventures of Peter Pan, might have been under threat, despite being announced in June to end speculation.

All forthcoming shows at the Thameside can be booked via this link.

Cllr Kent said: "I am delighted to be able to say that the Thameside Theatre is now able to plan ahead and book shows until the end of March 2027.

"This extension means that we can say for certain that audiences will continue to be thrilled and entertained for some time yet, as the Thameside remains the cultural heart of the borough.

"Each year thousands of people come to see shows at the Thameside as it creates opportunities for the borough's residents to enjoy well-priced live entertainment right on their doorstep.

"Beyond that it serves as a base and a stage for many local theatre and dance groups.

"Importantly this creates clarity around how the theatre operates, and guarantees that there will not only be a panto this year, but that staff can prepare for the Christmas 2026 panto season as well."