Culture Secretary reiterates government’s position around reopening theatres

Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden has taken to Twitter recently to speak more about the government’s position when it comes to hopes for reopening the country’s theatres, stating that there are no broad-stroke plans to cancel performances into next year. 

The MP has reiterated his stance on planning to reopen theatres as soon as it is feasible, stating that “we want performances back on as safely as we can”. He also wrote on Twitter that he was working on setting a restart date with “fuller audiences” – though this is not yet set-in stone. 

Due to a second national lockdown, performances were once again halted in early November, with the assumption being that, when the country returns to the ‘tier’ system put in place earlier this autumn, theatres should be able to reopen with social distancing measures in place. It is believed that the tier system should return from 2 December, depending on the status of the ‘R’ number. 

Many shows are hoping that this is the case and that they can reopen again with their planned productions in early December. This update comes as good news for many, especially many freelancers who, since they have not qualified for the government-backed SEISS, may be able to find some sort of work soon. 

Hopeful news Besties!