With the Prime Minister announcing the Government’s proposed roadmap for the removal of Covid restrictions and a return to a more normal life, we can finally feel optimistic and hopeful about the return of live entertainment.
 
There are 4 stages to reopening society with theatre and venues featuring in stages 3 and 4.
 
Stage 3 will take place no earlier than 17 May, and at least five weeks after Stage 2, following a further review of the data and the four tests. Again, the Government will announce one week in advance whether restrictions will be eased as planned.
 
Sectors which will reopen include remaining outdoor entertainment, such as outdoor theatres and cinemas. This includes some large events, including conferences, theatre and concert performances and sports events. Controlled indoor events of up to 1,000 people or 50% of a venue’s capacity, whichever is lower, will be permitted, as will outdoor events with a capacity of either 50% or 4,000 people, whichever is lower.

Stage 4 will take place no earlier than 21 June, and at least five weeks after Step 3, following a further review of the data against the four tests. This final stage will remove all legal limits on social contact, publishing accompanying guidance on how best to reduce the risk of transmission and protect ourselves and loved ones.

With appropriate mitigations in place, by Stage 4, the Government aims to reopen the remaining closed settings, including nightclubs and enable large events, including theatre performances, above the Stage 3 capacity restrictions, subject to the outcome of the scientific Events Research Programme and potentially using testing to reduce the risk of infection, subject to further evaluation.

Sadiq Khan has also announced proposals to invest £5m to support the reopening of central London, including a drive to attract Londoners and UK tourists back to hard-hit retail, hospitality, and cultural venues. The Mayor wants domestic tourism to be at the heart of London’s drive to ‘build back better’ and will focus on putting jobs and the economy at the heart of post-pandemic planning.

In other news, Rishi Sunak has announced an additional £400m worth of support for the arts sector as part of Wednesday’s Budget. The Chancellor said museums, theatres and galleries would be the main beneficiaries of the funds. Rosemary was a guest on Talk Radio’s Drivetime show to discuss this development with presenter John Pienaar.

Finally, on 16 March, the Society of London Theatre (SOLT) are marking the anniversary of theatres closing with an industry-wide press and social campaign, highlighting the challenges still facing the industry, hopes for the future and what we need to reopen. This will be supported by another We Make Events campaign where theatre and live music venues will be lit up in red throughout the week of 15-19 March.

There is hope on the horizon at last. We have everything crossed!