A dramatic fire broke out late last night in a building next door to the Palace Theatre, leaving two people with burns and forcing firefighters to battle intense flames above a popular kebab shop. The incident caused shock among theatre-goers and local residents who had just finished watching an evening performance.
The fire started in the upper floors of a building located beside the iconic theatre, a venue that has hosted countless shows and holds an important place in the city’s cultural heart. Witnesses described the scene as both frightening and surreal, as people spilled onto the street after enjoying a night at the theatre—only to find themselves confronted by smoke, flashing lights, and chaos.
First Signs of Smoke
One eyewitness, Alice Aungier, shared her account of the moment she realised something was wrong.
“I had finished watching a show at the Palace Theatre and came out to buy a souvenir when my mum said she could smell smoke,” Alice recalled. “I looked up and said yeah, because the building’s on fire!”
Her words capture the sudden shift in atmosphere—from the joy of theatre entertainment to the shock of an unfolding emergency. Dozens of people who had been enjoying the night quickly became onlookers to a dangerous fire situation.
Firefighters’ Swift Response
Emergency services arrived at the scene quickly, with firefighters working tirelessly to contain the flames. The fire was located above a kebab shop, a spot that is often busy with late-night customers. Flames were reported spreading through the upper sections of the building, making it a challenge for crews to bring the situation under control.
Despite the danger, firefighters managed to stop the blaze from spreading further into neighbouring buildings, including the Palace Theatre itself. Their quick work helped prevent what could have become a much larger disaster in the heart of the city.
Two individuals suffered burns during the incident. Paramedics provided immediate medical attention before they were transported to hospital for further treatment. At this stage, their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening, but the shock of the incident has left the local community shaken.
Impact on the Local Area
The Palace Theatre is not only a place of entertainment but also an economic hub, drawing large crowds to the area for performances. Local businesses, particularly food outlets, rely on this foot traffic. The fire raised concerns about the safety of surrounding properties and the long-term impact on trade in the area.
As of this morning, the kebab shop remains closed, and the section of street near the theatre has been cordoned off while investigators work to determine the cause of the fire. Early reports suggest that the blaze may have started in the residential areas above the shop, but an official conclusion has not yet been announced.
Community Reaction
Residents and theatre-goers have expressed both relief and gratitude that the fire was brought under control without greater loss of life or property. Many praised the firefighters for their rapid response and their dedication to protecting the surrounding area.
“This could have been so much worse,” one passerby commented. “We’re just grateful that the Palace Theatre is safe, and that the injuries weren’t more severe.”
Looking Ahead
While the immediate danger has passed, questions remain about the fire’s cause and the safety of older buildings in the area. Local authorities are expected to review fire safety procedures, particularly in mixed-use properties where restaurants and shops operate below residential spaces.
The Palace Theatre continues to operate, though some performances may face disruptions due to street closures and investigations nearby. For now, the theatre remains a beacon of resilience in the face of adversity, standing strong while the community rallies around those affected by the fire.
This incident is a stark reminder of how quickly an ordinary evening can turn into a life-threatening situation. From laughter and applause inside the Palace Theatre to smoke and flames just steps away, the night will be remembered as one where the city was tested—and where the bravery of firefighters prevented a cultural landmark from falling victim to disaster.
