Welcome to the June edition of Ensemble. I hope you’re all staying safe and well wherever you are right now.

The past month has seen quite a dramatic change of pace as the industry has really ramped up its efforts to lobby the Government and to be heard in the national media. Last week, the Society of London Theatre (SOLT) and UK Theatre submitted a detailed and comprehensive document to the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) and HM Treasury and held the first meeting of the new Entertainment and Events Working Group set up by DCMS and chaired by the Minister for Arts & Culture. The aim is to work together with national and local government on a solution that allows UK theatres to open safely, so that audiences and staff feel confident enough to return.

Industry spokespeople have also been highly visible across print and broadcast media, with appearances on programmes such as Question Time, Jeremy Vine, The Today Programme and Good Morning Britain. There is a feeling that the time has come to now move the focus and story forward on to positive and creative solutions on how the industry can reopen and ensure that the lobbying continues to demonstrate the economic and social benefits for the sector.

Within our own company, all departments are continuing to work incredibly hard as we fight our way through this Coronavirus battle and adapt to an ever changing landscape. On a positive note, we had the news that TE had signed a binding agreement with the Government of New South Wales to become the new leaseholder and operator of the Theatre Royal, Sydney, signalling the beginning of a new era for TE in acquiring and running major venues. You can read lots more about the acquisition and history of Theatre Royal Sydney in this issue.

Another industry trying to get back on its feet is cinema and the UK has its sights set on a July opening. There’s also the offer of 1950s nostalgia thanks to a London Drive In showing classic films throughout the summer and London Theatre Direct are selling tickets for this fabulous experience. These are all small glimmers of hope as we continue to navigate through these strange times.

Until next month, keep talking, stay connected and take care of yourselves.
Sending you all my very best wishes
Rosemary