Lords drama over bums on seats

Theatres struggle to cope with larger audience

West End audiences are growing in size - the House of Lords has heard - but not in the way theatres want.

The problem is that people are getting bigger and theatre seating should be improved to take account of it, according to Viscount Falkland, a former theatrical agent.

Apollo theatre, London, due for demolition?

He was speaking during questions on a report by the Theatres Trust which says many of Britain's historic and best loved auditoriums are uncomfortable and unsafe.

Viscount Falkland suggested some seats should be removed for audience comfort.

Fellow Liberal Democrat Lord Geraint said uncomfortable seating could spoil the audience's enjoyment.

And he suggested that since more people went to the theatre than attended football matches, it was time for an inquiry into theatre seating similar to the one held by Lord Taylor into football stadiums.

Lord LLoyd-Webber, rebuilding venues

Government spokesman Lord McIntosh of Haringey ruled out extra money to improve theatre seating.

The trust's report says the West End must make better use of its restricted space, even if it means demolishing cherished and historic buildings.

Lord Lloyd-Webber, the largest owner of West End venues, wants to demolish and replace the Apollo and the Lyric.

The Theatres Trust was set up by Parliament in 1976 to promote better protection of theatres.