I WAS concerned to read the letter of May 27 from Peter Newton regarding the move of the panto from York Theatre Royal to The Signal Box Theatre at the National Railway Museum.

I would like assure Mr Newton and all ticket holders that this purpose-built theatre space, while temporary, is a state-of-the-art venue designed for the outdoors and will be insulated to the highest standard.

The venue has been shipped over from Toronto, Canada, where it was used for our production of The Railway Children in 2011. It was specially built and was at the time one of the only traverse theatres in North America.

Hosting performances for up to a thousand people in snow and very cold Canadian-winter conditions, audiences were warm, well sheltered and very happy. Access to this venue is well planned.

Patrons will be able to use the museum’s car park, and an enchanted walk-way will be created to guide people to the venue. The venue will be fully accessible for people with disabilities, there will be a foyer area which will house a bar for drinks and refreshments and the museum itself is also working with us to provide further amenities.

I do hope Mr Newton will join us on this exciting adventure and feel assured that his wife will be comfortable in Berwick’s new home for 2015/16.

Abbigail Ollive, Head of Communications and Enterprise, York Theatre Royal.