More than 25,000 people enjoyed a pantomime that almost didn’t go ahead and now a theatre erected in just a few weeks is ready for its next show.

Visitors to Orchard West in Hythe Street, Dartford praised the production of Beauty and the Beast in the £1.5 million building which had to be constructed in record time after the discovery of concrete issues in the town’s theatre forced it to close.

The purpose-built temporary venue, just a stone’s throw from The Orchard Theatre, was hastily constructed in just six weeks and is now continuing with a string of productions.

Leader of Dartford Council Cllr Jeremy Kite said: “We were delighted we were able to get the theatre up and running so fast and it was wonderful that so many people came along to support the pantomime.

“It was the right decision.”

And Cllr Kite is encouraging people to come to future shows planned for the space.

“The arts are so important for Dartford. You can watch entertainment on TV and Youtube but it’s not the same as seeing a live production.

“People should come along to experience the new theatre before it goes and we forget it was ever here.”

Pantomime-lovers who flocked to the show at Orchard West were full of praise stating: “It was much better than we expected.”

While another said: “The temporary theatre is quite large and is warm - which you need for a cold winter night.”

A further customer added: “We were a little concerned that the performance was taking place in a pop-up venue but there was no need to worry.

“The moment the lights go down you forget that you’re in a temporary venue, the production values are high and the cast worked hard for the cheers, laughter, and obligatory boos.”

The theatre is now looking forward to a year packed with entertainment, starting with Swan Lake ballet on January 17 and 18. This is followed by Spirit of the Dance on January 24, music from The Guitar Heroes on January 28 and Gareth Gates in The Best of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons on January 31.

While next month will see The Music of Bob Marley on February 1, comedians Jimmy Carr on February 3 and Tom Davis on February 4, and family entertainment in the form of children’s favourite Fireman Sam on February 11.

Finally there are a number of firsts, with shows such as Stranger Sings on February 12, Buffy Revamped on February 14 and David Suchet: Poirot and More on February 22.

Theatre director Tal Rosen said: “Following a successful pantomime season, we are proud of everything we’ve achieved to get Orchard West running.

“We are delivering live entertainment in the local community once again and the whole Orchard West team look forward to welcoming audiences in 2024.

“If you didn’t get the chance to see panto, we encourage you to experience a live show in this unique venue, with all the comforts you’ve come to expect from theatre in Dartford.”

Construction began at the beginning of November as a replacement for The Orchard, in Home Gardens, after it was forced to shut in September following the discovery of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) in its roof.

Orchard West will stay in place until the newly revamped Orchard is up and running at the end of the year.