Face coverings will no longer be mandatory in theatres

Photo credit: Philip Vile

Boris Johnson announced today that Plan B measures will be lifted in light of Covid-19 cases falling and the Omicron wave likely having peaked. From 27 January, masks will no longer be required in theatres or any other venue.

The Prime Minister said it was time to “trust the judgement of the British people” on the use of masks, though the government would still suggest wearing them “in enclosed or crowded spaces, particularly when you come into contact with people you don’t normally meet.”

The return to Plan A also means a withdrawal of the guidance to work from home if possible, which will come into effect from today. This will be welcomed by theatres and producers who have previously warned that the working from home measure is damaging to the industry. Covid passes will also no longer be required by venues as of 27 January.

The legal requirement to self-isolate for five days will remain for the time being, but Johnson confirmed that the government intends to allow it to lapse when the regulations expire on 24 March , and that this date may be brought forward. Johnson said that in the future, he hoped Covid could be treated more like flu, and that “we will need to replace legal requirements with advice and guidance, urging people with the virus to be careful and considerate of others."

Let’s hope these new measures will be helpful to the theatre community, Besties!