No indoor performances without social distancing until November, says Culture Secretary

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Speaking on BBC Radio 4 this morning, Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden has discussed when indoor performances may be able to resume without social distancing and unfortunately, it’s not what we wanted to hear.

Whilst socially distanced outdoor shows are now allowed and indoor shows with distancing is permitted from 1 August, guidance for indoor shows WITHOUT social distancing will be provided “in November at the earliest”, according to the Prime Minister.

Without the said guidance, it is looking like the pantomime season this year for many will not be able to go ahead due to the time needed to build sets, rehearse and market the shows.

Dowden also said: "We will make the decision as rapidly as we can. But given where we are globally, and the risks around the world, this virus is far from defeated and I don't want to give people false hope."