Eyewitnesses described hearing a loud creaking prior to the collapse, which left the auditorium engulfed by thick dust and debris.
Structural engineers and a district surveyor from Westminster City Council will carry out a structural assessment of the building this morning.
Nimax Theatres, which owns the Apollo, described the collapse as a "shocking and upsetting incident", and said its thoughts were "with the audience and staff".
Fire crews and paramedics treated some of the injured in the nearby Gielgud Theatre before transporting many to hospital in ambulances, police cars and London buses.
Chief Superintendent Paul Rickett, of the Metropolitan Police, said there was "no suggestion at this stage that (the collapse) was as a result of a criminal act".
The show was playing to more than 700 people when the collapse took place.
Martin Bostock, who was in the theatre, told Sky News: "I think the front part of the balcony fell down. At first we thought it was part of the show, it was very dramatic.
"We got out with cuts and bruises, I think most people did."
Simon Usborne, also witnessed the collapse. He said: "A huge crack happened... and then my whole view of the stage was obscured by a huge cloud of dust.
"I think everything in the front row of the stalls and the dress circle would have been showered with debris."
The collapse reportedly took place as a reference was made to waves crashing on Brighton rocks, with some in the audience believing the noise was part of the show.
Mark Haddon, author of the book which the play is based on, tweeted: "I hope that those who were seriously injured are ok. I'm sorry, too, that so many people went through such a terrifying experience.
"I'm hugely relieved that no-one has died."
Mark Tait, an actor in the production, tweeted: "Thoughts are with all the audience. Horrific and unbelievable."
The theatre - a Grade II listed building - was completed in 1901 and seats 755 people.
Follow Me On Twitter &
Instagram: @effiongeton
No comments:
Post a Comment