The Horsham Town Hall has opted to cancel and delay several events as authorities continue to investigate reports of hidden cameras in the theatre’s changing rooms.
Performances have been rescheduled, with some pushed back to as far as June.
Authorities are encouraging anyone who might have been affected by the alleged incidents to reach out to Crime Stoppers.
In light of the ongoing investigation into the reports of concealed cameras, the Horsham Town Hall has announced the postponement of several performances.
On April 2, Victoria Police conducted two search warrants in Horsham, leading to the seizure of mobile devices, computers, and other storage equipment for forensic analysis.
Following these developments, one event was cancelled last week, and at least two others have been postponed until June. The venue will remain temporarily closed during this period.
When questioned about the postponements and any potential ongoing risks at the venue, Victoria Police stated that it was a matter for the Horsham Rural City Council (HRCC) to address.
The HRCC described the cancellations as a “precautionary measure,” stating, “To support the investigation and enhance safety, several shows and events have been cancelled and will be rescheduled.” The council also assured that ticket holders and affected patrons would be informed directly about new arrangements, with further updates to be provided when available.
Earlier this week, Victoria Police indicated that it was uncertain how long the devices had been present in the venue, but they confirmed that they had been operational for “a period of time.” A person of interest has been suspended from his position since the inquiry began.
The Horsham Arts Council (HAC) performers, who have been rehearsing for their production of “The Wizard of Oz” for months, expressed their disappointment over the postponement. The opening night had originally been scheduled for April 23.
HAC President Erin Boutcher stated that the committee could not address inquiries related to the investigation, including the reasons for the venue’s temporary closure. “We are heartbroken that our performance of ‘The Wizard of Oz’ has been postponed,” Ms. Boutcher remarked.
In a statement, the HAC committee expressed their shock regarding the recent events at the town hall theatre. “The safety of our members has always been our top priority, and that will not change,” they affirmed. “We encourage any members or community groups in need of support to reach out to us.”
Additionally, the Horsham Town Hall has postponed Luke Kidgell’s show “Good Intentions” to June 28.
Smart Artz Theatre Inc, another local theatre group, issued a statement expressing their thoughts for those who may have been affected by the situation. “This is a difficult message to convey regarding a matter that you may have heard about through the media this morning,” their statement read. “The news and its implications for our performers are profoundly distressing. Please know that we are considering you during this time, and we will share updates as we receive more information.”
Last Thursday, the circus group Cameo Rascale was set to present “Cirque Nouvelle” at the town hall, but the HRCC cancelled the performance. On Friday, the council announced that the cancellation was communicated to the crew after they had commenced their lengthy journey on Wednesday.
The council noted, “The cancellation was due to unforeseen circumstances, and we acknowledge the inconvenience it caused for patrons and the company.” They further stated that all ticket holders had been contacted via phone, email, or text to inform them of the cancellation and that refunds were available through the Horsham Town Hall box office. Patrons were also directed to the company’s website for additional tour details.
The council expressed hope that the Horsham Town Hall would host the performance again in the future. Producer and performer James Capener mentioned that the council had not provided specific reasons for the cancellation, but they remained optimistic about returning next year.
