New report suggests theatre industry needs its own “Eat Out To Help Out” scheme

A new think tank report has suggested that a discount scheme, similar to the ‘Eat Out To Help Out’ offer, should be introduced to get the theatre industry back on its feet following the pandemic.

Centre for London has created a ‘Recovery Plan for the West End’, which states that culture vouchers would “encourage audiences back to the theatre following the early success of the government’s Eat Out to Help Out scheme”.

The report, focussing on the West End, also proposes a London fringe could be lucrative by bringing outdoor performances to the city’s streets and parks. This would provide work for London’s performers and give audiences a reason to return to the West End.

It reports the closure of London’s theatre district has also had a knock-on effect on general footfall to the area and for the region’s hotels, restaurants and bars.

Whilst London has had a devastating blow to its industry, regional theatres and businesses are suffering equally so an incentive such as this scheme countrywide could be hugely beneficial.

Let’s hope this happens, Besties!