THE theatre curtain may be drawn and the stage door locked, but there is still plenty happening around Thurrock's Thameside Theatre.

During the coronavirus lockdown staff at the theatre have still been engaging with the local community and have issued a challenge, particularly to young people, to get creative.

The Thameside Creative Community Challenge is open to everyone, and the efforts of contributors are being showcased on the theatre's Creative Challenge Facebook page.

A spokesperson said: "We want to showcase our local community and the creative things you've been up to whilst staying home.

"Have you taken up crochet? Working on a comedy sketch? Learnt a new song? Written a poem? We want to see!

"We will be sharing your content across our social media channels to celebrate our wonderful and talented community, to brighten up everyone's day and to remind us that we are all #inthistogether."

Meanwhile, working on the adage that the show must go on, staff are working hard to reschedule performances that have been lost to coronavirus in April and May. If the show is being moved you will be given the option to transfer to the new date, a credit note or a refund.

All shows will be under review over the coming weeks and theatre staff will contact anyone who has booked tickets if there are any further changes.

This year's pantomime is Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, and tickets are now on sale. If you wish to view the current theatre programme or purchase tickets click here