Four paintings have been stolen off the wall from an exhibition at the Norwich Playhouse.

Eastern Daily Press: Instrument of Order by Rafail KokkinosInstrument of Order by Rafail Kokkinos (Image: Archant)

The abstract artworks – worth a total of more than £1,500 – were taken from the venue's gallery on a night when the theatre was not staging a production, but its bar area was open.

Staff say the thieves entered via a public area and went into the gallery, which is usually locked in the evenings, but had been left open for a short period.

The works had been painted by Rafail Kokkinos, 25, from Lakenham.

'I didn't really believe it when I heard,' he said.

Eastern Daily Press: Other by Rafail KokkinosOther by Rafail Kokkinos (Image: Archant)

'I didn't think anybody could be so bold to do that, because they are quite large as well. It's not like you could put them under your coat and walk out. I feel kind of sad, kind of flattered and kind of angry – it's a real mixture of emotions.'

The paintings were among seven by Mr Kokkinos on display. He added: 'I had a personal connection to those paintings and they just took them.'

The paintings, which reflect Mr Kokkinos's abstract style, are called 'Other', 'Untitled (with people)','Instrument of order' and 'Untitled (man trying)'.

As well as working as an artist, Mr Kokkinos works and volunteers at an infant school.

Eastern Daily Press: Untitled (man trying) by Rafail KokkinosUntitled (man trying) by Rafail Kokkinos (Image: Archant)

The thefts took place between 9pm and 10.15pm on Friday, May 6.

A spokesman from the Playhouse said: 'We have never had anything like this happen before, it was a real shock. They [the thieves] walked in through the public area, up to the gallery, and off they went.'

The spokesman said the gallery area is usually locked in the evening, but for a 'short' period that night, it was not.

Anyone with information about the thefts should report them to the police on 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Eastern Daily Press: Untitled (with people) by Rafail KokkinosUntitled (with people) by Rafail Kokkinos (Image: Archant)

Do you have a story about a theft? Email stuart.anderson@archant.co.uk