PANTOS could return by Christmas as theatres and music venues will be allowed to reopen from this weekend as long as performances take place outside.
Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden announced the changes this evening after admitting earlier this week he would love to see pantos back.
The announcement confirms revelations by HOAR that performances could resume outdoors.
Mr Dowden said this evening: “This is an important milestone for our performing artists who’ve been waiting patiently in the wings since march.
“Out theatres, operas, dance and music shows can start putting on outdoor performances to socially distance audience.”
He said today’s announcement brings the industry one step closer to performing indoors.
It comes after theatres and the arts industry was given £1.57 billion in funding to help keep them afloat after being some of the last venues to be allowed to reopen.
They will be expected to stick to strict social distancing and follow guidelines to protect performers.
Many theatres have been plunged into economic turmoil by the shutdown, with some smaller theatres warning they may never return.
Mr Dowden, announcing the cash boost earlier this week, said small, clocal institutions needed to be protected as much as the “crown jewels” in London’s West End.
Mr Dowden said: “We will be prioritising it to those institutions that need it most, starting with the crown jewels of our national life – the Royal Albert Halls and so on of this world,
“But also making sure it reaches every part of the United Kingdom, the Leeds Playhouse or wherever else across the UK, where culture matters to people and matters to the local economy.”
What was announced this evening:
- Grassroots sport will be able to restart from this weekend – but clubs have to submit coronavirus “action plans”
- Brits will be able to hit the gym or go swimming as well as they reopen from July 25
- Outdoor pools can reopen from Saturday
- Theatres and music venues can start performances outdoors, and there will be some trials of indoor performances
Earlier this week, Mr Dowden warned interactive performances – such as pantomimes – could be a long way off reopening because of the risk of transmission.
But he said the Government would do everything they can do get them back.
Gyms, public pools, nail salons and the beauty industry – some of the last businesses to be allowed to reopen – will be able to open up their doors again from the end of July.
