AS VENUE Cymru in Llandudno celebrates the return of theatre-goers, the curtain remains firmly down at Rhyl Pavilion.

It is the tale of two theatres - one that is gearing up to stage its first musical and another one which is desperate to - but sadly the latter doesn't expect to welcome back customers anytime soon.

In July, 1891 Restaurant and Bar at Rhyl Pavilion was forced to close following a burst water tank.

Although the restaurant took most of the force of the water and the theatre auditorium was "relatively unscathed", it has now been confirmed that the building’s circulation areas, including toilets, box office, lobbies and stairwells and their associated mechanical and electrical installations are all badly damaged and will require full refurbishment.

Jamie Groves, managing director of Denbighshire Leisure Ltd, said: "We have received a number of enquiries around the timescale for reopening the Pavilion Theatre, and 1891 Bar and Restaurant."

“Following the recent flood, the damage to the building is far greater than was originally anticipated. Whilst we appreciate the disappointment and inconvenience the closure has caused both promoters and customers, we can assure everyone that no one is more distressed than we are, as a workforce, at Denbighshire Leisure Ltd. Having had to close our operations several times due to the pandemic, to now see our beautiful theatre and restaurant in such a state, is truly heart-breaking and devastating.

“As a commercial business, we cannot wait to see our flagship 1891 Restaurant and the Pavilion Theatre open once more, and we are doing everything we can to ensure the remedial work moves forward as quickly as possible.

“However, the widespread damage means that at the current time the building cannot open to the public.”

The Journal had pressed Denbighshire Leisure Ltd for an update on Rhyl Pavilion and its 1891 restaurant following a number of enquiries from readers.

Organisers had also been in touch about their shows not going ahead.

It is now evident that shows will not be running in October and some performances have been cancelled or rescheduled in November.

However, it is not clear on the Rhyl Pavilion website what shows have been postponed. It is understood instead the company is contacting those direct [who have booked rescheduled shows] with information.

A date has not been given for reopening due to the scale of the works involved.

Mr Groves added: “We are working very closely with the loss adjusters and specialist surveyors to agree the scope of works and the position is being reviewed on a daily basis. We are staying in touch with all our bookings and updating everyone as and when we are able.

“Most of the shows that were due to take place in November have already been rescheduled and we are reviewing others on a weekly basis.

“We appreciate that everyone would like to given a firm date for reopening, but due to the scale of the works and the lengthy drying out process involved, this is just not possible at the moment.

“Most of those involved have been very understanding of our position, and we hope that this statement helps to clarify the difficult circumstances we are facing. We will continue to provide updates as and when they become available

"I would like to thank everyone who has provided messages of support, your loyalty and custom are truly appreciated.

"Denbighshire Leisure Ltd remains fully committed to investing in Rhyl and delivering top quality facilities.

"We remain one of the main businesses still investing to make Rhyl the destination of choice. Having completed this year the new Terrace restaurant; the Shack takeaway; a new fitness experience at Rhyl Leisure Centre and most recently successfully bringing Tom Jones to town.”