A FIRE in the stage area has today closed the Grand Opera House - and management have yet to say when it will reopen.

The blaze broke out at 5.40pm on Wednesday in the theatre in Cumberland Street after the matinee performance of Rock of Ages. It is now out.

The cause and extent of the damage have yet to be established. No-one was injured.

General manager Rachel Lane said tonight's performance has been cancelled and no decision has yet been made about future performances.

Speaking at 7pm, she said: "We are literally standing waiting to be let back on site."

She thanked everyone who had helped including local businesses.