RSC announces series of socially distanced performances of new musical THE MAGICIAN’S ELEPHANT
The Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) has announced that it will stage seven socially distanced performances of its new musical The Magicians Elephant.
The musical, which has a book and lyrics by Nancy Harris and music and lyrics by Marc Teitler, is based upon the best-selling novel by Kate DiCamillo, with socially distanced performances being presented at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre throughout November and December 2021.
The show will operate at reduced capacity from 2 November for seven Tuesday evening performances, where every other row will be used and an empty seat between parties to ensure 1m+ social distancing. Audience members are encouraged to wear masks throughout their visit unless exempt.
RSC Executive Director Catherine Mallyon said: “Some of our audiences, particularly those who consider themselves vulnerable, have told us that they would feel more comfortable attending indoor events with additional space around them and with face coverings worn at all times. We have therefore decided to make seven Tuesday performances of The Magician’s Elephant socially-distanced and we hope this will mean that those who might otherwise feel unable to return to live theatre this winter have the opportunity to do so confidently.”
The production marks the re-opening of the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and will run from 14 October 2021 to 1 January 2022. Telling the story of orphan Peter Augustus Duchene, who lives a lonely life in the town of Baltese until one day a magician conjures an elephant from the sky. The animal’s appearance catapults Peter into the quest of his life and changes Baltese forever.
The decision to still have socially distanced performances comes from work by We Shall Not Be Removed, Ramps on the Moon, Attitude is Everything, Paraorchestra and What Next? To enable everyone equal opportunities to enjoy and participate in culture once more.
The socially distanced performances will begin at 7.15pm on the following Tuesdays: 2, 9, 16 and 23 November and the 7, 21 and 28 of December.
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