Christopher Biggins [Allan Warren]

AN alliance of stage actors, producers and playwrights have signed a letter asking the board at the Kiln Theatre in Kilburn to revert to the playhouse’s old name.

The controversial decision in April to scrap the Tricycle name and call the theatre and cinema the Kiln, after a multi-million-pound refit, caused uproar from sup­porters, customers and people in the arts world. This week, the New Journal received a letter signed by 36 high-profile supporters.

They say: “The Tricycle has been a much-loved and respect­ed brand for almost 40 years within the Kilburn community and theatrical world and the name change serves no purpose but to remove the history of this remarkable theatrical landmark forever.”

Panto star Christopher Biggins, former East­Enders actress Anita Dobson, comedian and campaign­er Mark Thomas, and singer and actor Lorraine Chase are among those who have signed.