Question 1

1. What happens if it rains?

Accepted Answer

Our open-air performances will normally continue in light or intermittent rain, so please come prepared for the weather and bring suitable waterproof clothing.If the rain becomes too heavy, we may temporarily pause the performance and restart once conditions improve. If conditions mean that it is not possible or safe to continue, we may have to abandon the performance.Umbrellas cannot be used during the performance as they obstruct the view of other audience members.

Question 2

2. When do you decide whether to cancel because of the weather?

Accepted Answer

We make every reasonable effort for performances to go ahead and will only cancel when we are reasonably certain that conditions will make it impossible or unsafe to perform.We usually aim to make a decision by 4pm on the day of the performance, but this cannot be guaranteed. Weather conditions and forecasts can change quickly, so occasionally a decision may need to be made later — or even shortly before the performance is due to begin.

Question 3

3. How will I know if a performance has been cancelled?

Accepted Answer

If we cancel or significantly change a performance, we will contact ticket holders directly by email, using the email address supplied when booking.We will also do our best to publicise cancellations on our website and official social media channels as soon as possible.Unless you have received an email directly from The Rude Mechanical Theatre Company confirming that a performance has been cancelled or changed, please assume that it is going ahead as scheduled.

Question 4

4. What happens if very hot weather is forecast?

Accepted Answer

Extreme heat can sometimes make it unsafe for our performers, crew or audience to continue with an outdoor performance.Depending on the circumstances, we may make changes to the performance arrangements, move the performance to a suitable nearby indoor or alternative venue, reschedule it or, if necessary, cancel it.We will contact ticket holders by email if there is a significant change to the arrangements.

Question 5

5. Will you move the performance indoors if the weather is bad?

Accepted Answer

Sometimes. If a suitable nearby indoor or alternative venue is available, we may decide to relocate the performance rather than cancel it.If the performance takes place at the same date and time, your existing tickets will remain valid for the new venue. Refunds are not available, although you may transfer your tickets free of charge to another performance of the same production during the current season, subject to availability.If we change the date or time, you may attend the rescheduled performance, transfer to another available performance of the same production during the current season, or request a refund.

Question 6

6. What happens if the weather gets worse after the performance has started?

Accepted Answer

If conditions deteriorate, we may pause the performance and wait for the worst of the weather to pass. Where it is safe and practical to do so, we will then restart and continue the performance.Occasionally, conditions may mean that we are unable to continue and have to abandon the performance.If this happens after the performance has started, refunds are not available. You may transfer your tickets free of charge to another performance of the same production during the current season, subject to availability.

Question 7

7. Can I get a refund if I decide not to come because of the weather?

Accepted Answer

No. If the performance is going ahead as scheduled, tickets are non-refundable if you decide not to attend because of the weather.Please come prepared for the conditions. For open-air performances we recommend checking the forecast and bringing suitable warm and/or waterproof clothing as necessary.

Question 8

8. Can I use an umbrella during the performance?

Accepted Answer

No. Unfortunately, umbrellas obstruct the view of other audience members and cannot be used during an open-air performance.Please bring suitable waterproof clothing if rain is forecast.

Question 9

9. Should I bring warm clothes?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Even on a warm or sunny day, outdoor temperatures can drop considerably once the sun goes down, particularly later in the evening.We strongly recommend bringing more warm clothing than you think you will need. Extra layers, a warm coat and a blanket can make a big difference to your enjoyment of the performance.Remember that you will be sitting still for much of the evening, so you may feel considerably colder than you would if you were walking around.