Theatres in England can reopen fully from 19 July

The government has confirmed that Step 4 of the reopening roadmap in England will be on 19 July.

Theatres Trust Director Jon Morgan responds:

Today’s confirmation that Step 4 of the reopening roadmap will go ahead on 19 July is welcome news for theatres in England, who will no longer face capacity caps and social distancing requirements. This will enable theatres to welcome back full audiences, producing shows that are financially viable and to provide more work for the sector’s precious freelance workforce.

We know that theatres will do everything in their power to continue to ensure they provide a safe environment for their audiences.

While it is good news for England, theatres in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are still subject to tighter restrictions. A consistent approach is important both for the sake of struggling theatres in those nations and the impact on the viability of UK-wide tours, which are a vital part of the theatre landscape.

Updated 14 July - the government has now published its guidance for Step 4 for Events and Attractions. Note this is now one set of guidance for a range of sectors rather than specifically for the performing arts.

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