More West End shows start scheduling Sunday performances

Photo credit: Matthew Murphy

Producers have started to release their booking schedules and return dates for their West End shows off the back of the government’s roadmap to recovery announcement, and it appears that shows such as The Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables, Tina – The Tina Turner Musical and Hamilton amongst others have taken the opportunity to include Sunday performances. 

This is a departure from pre-Covid schedules when Sunday was the traditional day of rest. Some shows such as The Lion King and Matilda already have Sunday matinee performances and other shows are beginning to follow suit. 

Following a re-negotiation of the West End Agreement, created by Equity and voted through in October 2020, “Sunday Pay” was to be scrapped until Spring 2022 at the earliest to hopefully help performances return, and ensure that audiences can return at a more leisurely and accessible pace. 

The introduction of Sunday matinees for certain shows means that it is a more family-friendly time, opening the door to more opportunities for families to attend. It is also more inviting for those travelling to London for the weekend.

The scheduling change was highlighted by blogger West End Wilma and shows are due to recommence from May 2021. It is currently unconfirmed as to how long Sunday performances will continue or whether they will become a mainstay.