Actors and youth theatre members opposed the closure

The theatre was put into liquidation a week ago and the Treasure Island pantomime cancelled.

But administrators said they would now allow the season to run from Saturday until 26 January while they considered various financial options.

Tenon Recovery spokesman Dilip Dattani said the theatre's long-term future still hung in the balance.

He said a "robust business plan" must be prepared by any prospective owners.

A consortium has already raised some money that has enabled the theatre to re-open, he added.

Several protests have been staged in Derby calling for a plan to save the theatre.

Former Chief Executive Karen Hebden said: "We need to look at everything - not just the shows - also what structure we can have going forward in the long-term as well as in the medium term."

Anyone who bought tickets for shows since the theatre closed can apply for a refund.