York theatre company vows the show will go on after tour van and set stolen

York-based national touring theatre company Riding Lights Theatre Company has had its touring van stolen while on the road with its newest production, Night Falls.

The van, which contained the entire set, costumes, and technical equipment for the show, was taken overnight, leaving the company devastated at the loss.

After weeks of preparation and the launch of the production’s UK tour at Lowry, the theft has meant the sudden disappearance of almost everything needed to stage the show.

Despite the setback, the company is determined that the tour will continue.

As this statement is released, the cast and crew have returned to their base at Friargate Theatre in York and are already working to rebuild the production. The team is sourcing replacement technical equipment, assembling an alternative set from the company’s warehouse, and pulling together replacement costumes with support from suppliers and partners.

The company is determined that audiences will still experience Night Falls.

The production may look different when it returns to the stage, but its story and message remain unchanged — a message of hope emerging from grief, and the belief that even in difficult moments, joy can follow.

Executive Director Oliver Brown said:

“We are truly devastated by this loss. Months of work disappeared overnight. But we are determined to pick ourselves up and carry on.

The show will go on. We are already working hard to rebuild the production so we can get back on the road. Our next performance is in Bradford, and we are moving mountains to make it happen.”

Night Falls is a fresh, vivid and dynamic retelling of the Easter story, blending music and powerful drama written by Artistic Director Paul Birch.

Riding Lights is asking for support from the public and the theatre community to help sustain the remaining tour dates and rebuild what has been lost.

Donations can be made at:
www.ridinglights.org/donate