HACKNEY EMPIRE THEATRE

That this House is deeply saddened by the news that the legendary Hackney Empire is due to close in January for an uncertain temporary period; is concerned that the theatre will lose valuable supporters during the temporary period and may not be able to reopen; notes the famous faces that have graced the theatre's stage, including Charlie Chaplin, Stan Laurel, Marie Lloyd, Dawn French, Jennifer Saunders, Ben Elton and Ralph Fiennes; recognises the value of the theatre's 108 years of history; further recognises the value of the variety of shows the theatre delivers, helping to engage hard-to-reach audiences; believes that the loss of the theatre would be damaging to Hackney and the surrounding areas; and calls on the Government to step in to save the treasured Hackney Empire.