Following the government’s announcement of a second lockdown from Thursday 5 November until Wednesday 2 December, including the closure of theatres across the UK, Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden confirmed last night that Art venues are permitted to open for rehearsals and live-streamed performances.
2.
Q: Can arts venues open for rehearsals and to stream performances?
A: Yes. Arts venues are places of work, so people can come into them for work, if it cannot be undertaken from home. This includes rehearsals and performance. Audiences are not permitted.
— Oliver Dowden (@OliverDowden) November 2, 2020
Julian Bird, CEO Society of London Theatre and UK Theatre said: “We welcome the confirmation from the government that rehearsals and filming/live streaming can continue during the upcoming National Restrictions in England.
“This will enable those theatres around the country who have already opened safely to socially distanced audiences to continue with their plans and be ready to welcome audiences back for Christmas once lockdown has been lifted.”
Stay tuned as we will continue to keep you updated with the latest news including performance schedules for December and live-streamed events that you can enjoy in the coming months.