'We fully recognise how disappointing this news will be': Artists, audiences and promoters affected as Northern Ireland theatre to remain closed until 2027 after extensive water damage
Water damage repairs keep Strabane’s Alley Theatre closed, with 2026 shows hit as promoters seek alternative venues and refunds offered after extended closure
A Northern Ireland theatre will remain closed for the rest of 2026 after further investigations revealed extensive repair work is required following water damage to the building.
Alley Theatre in Strabane initially closed to facilitate essential repairs, but Derry City and Strabane District Council has now confirmed the venue will not reopen this year due to the scale of the works needed.
The extended closure means all events scheduled to take place at the theatre for the remainder of 2026 will be affected. Council officers are currently engaging with promoters and event organisers to explore alternative arrangements where possible, including relocating performances to other venues across the council area or rescheduling events.
Customers who have already purchased tickets for affected performances will be able to obtain refunds through the Box Office, with further details being communicated directly.
The council said it anticipates the theatre will be in a position to resume programming in early 2027, subject to the successful completion of the repair works.
Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, councillor Grace Uí Niallais, said: “We fully recognise how disappointing this news will be for audiences, artists and promoters who were looking forward to events at the Alley Theatre in the months ahead.
"The Alley is a valued cultural asset for Strabane and the wider district, and while the decision to extend the closure is disappointing it is necessary to facilitate the works programme.”
She added: “We are committed to supporting promoters and customers during this period, including facilitating alternative arrangements where possible, and we appreciate the patience and understanding of the public while these essential works are completed.
"We look forward to welcoming audiences back to the Alley Theatre once it reopens and to resuming a full programme of events in 2027.”
A detailed paper on the works programme will be presented to elected members of the Business and Culture Committee while updates on progress, reopening timelines and future programming will also be made available to the public as this information becomes available.