FOR the second time a popular Thurrock musical theatre group has had to postpone its next production.

Tops On Stage had planned to stage Oliver! at the Thameside Theatre in the spring but that was called off because of coronavirus and rescheduled for next month.

However, with no end in sight to the easing of social distancing rules regarding theatres, the decision has been made to put it back again.

Society chair Simon Lambert says: "Following the devastating cancellation of our Oliver! production in March. The support from you all means everything to us and is the reason we are able to survive as an arts organisation in Thurrock.

"It is with much disappointment that we have taken the decision to once again postpone our October 2020 production of the show to March 2021. Unfortunately, until we can comfortably and safely welcome back our high volume of audiences and not need to socially distance our cast and crew of 60+ backstage, it's impossible for us to perform.

"We are so very grateful that the majority of our audiences transferred their tickets to our October production and we hope that you will stick with us once again into next year.

"We are hopeful that plans to re-open the Thameside Theatre will progress quickly and safely in the coming months to enable us to perform this show in March 2021. The cast have worked so hard and been so patient that they deserve to be able to perform and our audiences be able to enjoy Oliver! in much better circumstances.

"Our new performance dates are Wednesday 17th - Sunday 21st March 2021 (matinee performances on Saturday and Sunday) and current ticket holders will receive an email with further information.

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"If you haven't booked tickets and would like to you can do so through www.topstickets.co.uk

"This means that our production of the Addams Family will now take place in October 2021. We will launch this show in April 2021 so keep your eyes peeled for further details on auditioning and buying tickets!

"In other news, there has been lots of background work taking place at TOPS on Stage and we are excited to share some of it soon on social media. We have also enjoyed our weekly virtual quizzes and games with some of our cast, which has kept us together and smiling!"