BREAKING NEWS Apollo Theatre in central London Collapses during Performance

A rescue opearation is under way after part of a balcony or roof at London's Apollo theatre collapsed, leaving a "number of casualties". Fire crews and ambulances are at the scene and stretchers are being wheeled inside the theatre. Unconfirmed reports suggested some people may be trapped amid the debris. Eyewitnesses said some people were leaving the theatre bleeding. London Ambulance Service says there are about 30 casualties. The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time was playing at the Shaftesbury Avenue venue. Eyewitnesses said they heard a creak prior to the collapse. Police confirmed they were called to the theatre shortly after 8.15pm. A spokesman said: "There is a report of a collapse in the building itself. It is believed some people may have been injured in the collapse." Martin Bostock, who was in the theatre, told Sky News: "I was in the stalls with my family in the early stages of the show. "I think the front part of the balcony fell down. At first we thought it was part of the show, it was very dramatic. "We got out with cuts and bruises, I think most people did." Simon Usborne, also watching the performance, told Sky News: "A huge crack happened ... and then my whole view of the stage was obscured by a huge cloud of dust. "I think everything in the front row of the stalls and the dress circle would have been showered with debris." Mr Usborne said people are being treated for head injuries. "There are a lot of people with blood on their faces," he added. "The Curious Incident of the Dog In The Night-Time is pretty popular with families and they have left in tears, they are pretty distraught." Twitter user Charlotte Rolt posted: "At the Apollo theatre and total mayhem when the roof just came down on us! We look like we've been down the mines!"

• 2013-12-19T22:12:06+00:00
• Duration: 02:02

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