Theatreland and live music venues will stay dark for the time being because scientists have concluded that live performers would be at too great a risk, it emerged today.
Despite allowing cinemas to reopen with strict social distancing to protect audiences, theatres are not being given the go-ahead in today’s statement by the Prime Minister.
A Whitehall source said this was because singing, dancing and speaking loudly have all been found to increase the risk of spreading the virus, particularly between performers who tend to be in close proximity.
“Live performances are just by their nature more difficult although work is happening to try to find a way for them to get going again,” said the source.
“Oliver Dowden, the Culture Secretary, is working with the performers and management to see what mitigation could be put in place.”
Even solo artists like Ed Sheeran will not be allowed to take to the indoor stage for the time being until rules can be devised to keep performers, technicians and audiences safe.
The news comes as the Theatre Royal Plymouth today announced that 100 jobs are at risk due to the crisis. Having lost 91 per cent of its income, the theatre is now in redundancy talks with nearly a third of its staff.
