Cock Tavern Theatre looking for new home due to safety issues - Victorian staircases don't meet fire regulations

Published: 14 April 2011
By JOSH LOEB

A THEATRE group are seeking a new home in Camden after being forced to move because of health and safety rules.

The Cock Tavern Theatre has won praise from critics since it opened above a pub in Kilburn High Road in 2009.

Last week its artistic director Adam Spreadbury-Maher was told the venue’s Victorian staircases do not meet fire regulations – meaning shows have had to be speedily relocated to Islington's King’s Head.

The theatre lies just over the border in Brent, where Mr Spreadbury-Maher said the company would like to stay if possible.

However, he is keen to hear about vacant premises on the Camden side of Kilburn which could be converted into a theatre.

Mr Spreadbury-Maher said Brent Council had been “very supportive” of his venture and that his company wanted to comply fully with their fire saftey risk rules.

The group’s current production A Butcher of Distinction has transferred immediately to the King’s Head Theatre (Islington) and plays until 24 April.