Police end ‘security alert’ at Old Vic theater in central London

Police have lifted an evacuation order in central London following a security alert at the Old Vic theater. The incident was found not to be suspicious and police thanked the public for their patience and understanding.

Speaking to RT, a police spokesperson said the call they received claimed that there “might be a suspicious package” at the theater in the Waterloo area of London. They could not confirm if any such package was discovered at the theater.

The Old Vic tweeted that the incident was found “not to be suspicious.” The performance was cancelled with patrons advised to re-book. A later show on Saturday will proceed as planned, according to the theater.

The evacuation took place ten minutes into a performance of Woyzeck, according to an audience member. Speaking to RT, Jack Griffith from the Metropolitan Police Service said police were contacted at 2:38pm regarding a security alert at the theater.

Almost two hours after the initial alert, police confirmed that the incident was over.

Road closures had been put in place and specialist officers were at the area which is situated next to London’s Waterloo station.

 “We have been evacuated as a precaution; audience safety is our priority,” the Old Vic said on Twitter, adding that they were liaising with police.