A theatre in Kent has said a play's opening night will go ahead as planned while repairs continue on a lengthy power cut.

The Tower Theatre in Folkestone has been suffering with an electricity outage since Monday afternoon when contractors at a nearby housing development reportedly cut through a cable.

Staff at the theatre in Shorncliffe were concerned it would threaten Folkestone and Hythe Operatic and Dramatic Society (FHODS) production of My Boy Jack.

But power has been temporarily supplied today, meaning the wartime play can go on with its opening night tonight.

Reana Herchenhan, spokeswoman for the Tower Theatre, said: "We are very pleased to say that we have a generator powering the theatre while the repairs are being carried out.

"The opening night will go ahead as planned, as well as the following three performances."

The play is being performed this week to commemorate the centenary of the end of the First World War, which explores Rudyard Kipling's life and the war.

Theatre technicians at the venue had been setting up the stage in the dark earlier this week, using only torchlight to get through.

The power damage occurred at the new Taylor Wimpey development Shorncliffe Heights earlier in the week, and contractors and site developers say they have been working to repair the damage.

A spokesperson for Taylor Wimpey said: "We would like to apologise to The Tower Theatre and any other residents and businesses affected by the power cut next to our Shorncliffe Heights development.

"This was caused when our contractor accidentally damaged a power cable adjacent to the work area.

"We are working with the electricity provider to repair the damage as quickly as possible and are in regular contact with all affected parties."

The housing firm added that a generator to supply temporary power to the affected properties has been provided, until mains power is restored.

Roger Joyce, who is directing the show My Boy Jack, said: "The show will go on!

"Our set building and props volunteers are working by torchlight, and rehearsals are progressing in cast members’ houses.

"If the opening night is not as polished as FHODS shows usually are, we are sure our audiences will understand."

There are four performances of My Boy Jack taking place over the weekend.

Tickets can be booked online at www.towertheatrefolkestone.co.uk and will also be available on the door.