Just Stop Oil halts Les Miserables show as protesters storm stage in London’s West End | Ents & Arts News

Just Stop Oil protesters have halted a West End performance of Les Miserables after invading the stage.

During the song One Day More, where an actor waves the famous red flag, members of the group stormed the stage with banners emblazoned with Just Stop Oil.

A video shows the actors on stage continuing to perform the number before they step back while the area is cleared and the safety curtain comes down.

The crowd boo while one member of the group addresses the auditorium.

They then locked themselves to the set, prompting the Sondheim Theatre to be evacuated.

The Metropolitan Police said five people have been arrested, the force said on social media.

In a statement to Sky News, William Village, chief executive of Delfont Mackintosh Theatres said: “During the first half of our performance of Les Miserables, individuals from Just Stop Oil invaded the stage, abruptly stopping the show.

“Following our safety protocols, the audience were asked to leave the auditorium and the Met Police attended.

“Regrettably, there was insufficient time to enable us to complete the rest of the performance. Whilst we recognise the importance of free expression, we must also respect our audience’s right to enjoy the event for which they have paid.”

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Just Stop Oil member Hannah Taylor said: “The show starts with Jean Valjean stealing a loaf of bread to feed his sister’s starving child. How long before we are all forced to steal loaves of bread? How long before there are riots on the streets?

“The show cannot go on. We are facing catastrophe. New oil and gas means crop failure, starvation and death. It is an act of war on the global south and an utter betrayal of young people.”

Poppy Bliss, who also took action, added she is “absolutely terrified for my future.”

“I don’t want to be disrupting people’s evenings out, but I have been left with no other choice. Our government is betraying the young and putting everyone’s futures on the line for the sake of a few votes.

“I am doing this because I am desperate.”

Subsequent videos show members of the group explaining why they took the action, wearing t-shirts saying: “The show can’t go on”.

It’s the latest in a string of public protests for Just Stop Oil, who have in the past few months disrupted high-profile sporting events, such as The Ashes and Wimbledon, as well as carrying out walking protests through the capital during rush hour.

The group were also accused of causing criminal damage by a government minister, after they sprayed the Department for Energy and Net Zero with orange paint.

Last month, Fossil Free London carried out a similar protest at Sadler’s Wells theatre during a performance of a ballet version of Romeo & Juliet, demanding an end to the involvement of Barclays in the production.