We’re over a year into lockdown, which means it’s been a year since theatres first closed their doors for the first time due to the coronavirus pandemic.
While venues have sporadically been able to open for short periods of time in different parts of the country, no shows have been able to run for an extended period over the past 12 months.
However, there is a glimmer of hope on the horizon that could see theatres reopen this spring.
Under the government’s current roadmap out of lockdown, which is subject to the success of the vaccine rollout and a reduced number of deaths, the UK will enter step three in the roadmap out of lockdown on 17 May.
Under this stage, indoor and outdoor theatres can reopen, while a rule of six or two households can meet indoors.
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However, there will be limits on how many people can attend events.
Should all go to plan, limits on social contact will be lifted on 21 June, with theatres therefore able to open beyond the limits put in place under stage three.
However, neither capacity limits have yet been laid out. Before lockdown was brought back in in December, theatres could operate at seating capacities of 50 per cent or 1,000 depending on which was lower.
With these guidelines for reopening in place, many theatres have announced their programming for May and June and the safety measures they will have in place.
The National Theatre says that seating at their shows After Life and Under Milk Wood will be physically distanced, with tickets available to buy within households or support bubbles.
Guests will be given a specific arrival slot in order to help maintain social distancing when entering the theatre.
