Theatres face oblivion, says Lloyd Webber

COMMERCIAL theatre faces oblivion if the Government doesn’t step in, Andrew Lloyd Webber has warned.

The composer and theatre impresario, 72, said the industry must be given a bailout to ensure its survival.

Lord Lloyd-Webber criticised the Government for sidelining theatre while the TV and film industries are given priority.

‘I really don’t think commercial theatre can survive unless the Government does now step up to the plate and give it a little bit of help,’ he said on Good Morning Britain yesterday.

‘I have noticed over the years, in this country, commercial theatre has been way down the food chain as far as governments have been concerned.’

He added: ‘They’re underwriting the film industry at the moment. Does theatre get a look in it? No.’