The Society of London Theatre has confirmed that all West End theatres will offer a normal service on Friday and over the weekend.

"Like the rest of London, theatre people will not be intimidated by terrorism," said Richard Pulford, the society's chief executive. "They are absolutely determined that life shall go on as normal. Tonight they will take to our stages, man our box offices and care for our audiences as they always have."

Pulford noted that London "is the theatre capital of the world," adding that it "will remain so despite yesterday’s atrocities."

Theatre-goers are being asked to contact the point of purchase directly for refunds and exchanges for cancelled performances on Thursday.

"The London theatre industry has always been united in difficult times," said Rosemary Squire, the society's president. "Yesterday’s events make us more determined than ever to continue offering the best variety of live entertainment in the world. Our message is clear to those who seek to destroy our freedom. In London’s West End, the show will go on."