Since 1999

Trusted News & Reviews

25

years

best of british theatre

Official
tickets

Pick
your seats

Since 1999

25 years

Official tickets

Pick seats

Boris Johnson's Covid-19 Roadmap and what it means for theatre

Published on

February 23, 2021

By

douglasmayo

Boris Johnson and the Department of Digital Culture, Media and Sport have unveiled their roadmap under which theatres could re-open at full capacity by late June.

West End looking like a Ghost Town. Photo: Mark Ludmon

The proposed guidelines in the Government's roadmap are dependent on the easing of coronavirus lockdown restrictions by Spring. This would be achieved through continued coronavirus vaccinations and the effectiveness of current lockdown restrictions.

The main developments for theatre are contained in roadmap from Step 3 onwards.

Step 3 is slated to go into effect no earlier than 17 May and allows for the re-opening of outdoor venues. Indoor theatres will be able to re-open but will be limited to capacities of 1000 people or 50% whichever is lower.

Step 4 is the biggest potential step for theatres with the easing of all remaining capacity restrictions for theatres. It is highly likely though that enhanced testing and Covid-19 status certifications may be implemented.

Step 4 is pencilled in to begin on 21 June (or five weeks after Step 3).

It is important to note that guidance dates are not exact and could be changed based on the state of the pandemic at the time. Confirmation of dates and rules will be advised one week in advance.

The roadmap treats the re-opening of theatres as a cultural necessity and points towards maintaining the arts however possible. The roadmap points towards the aim of allowing theatres to remain open once they can welcome back audiences.

We will update information on all productions and their plans to re-open as soon as they are known.

Join our Mailing List for updates.

The BritishTheatre.com website was created to celebrate the rich and diverse theatrical culture of the United Kingdom. Our mission is to provide the latest UK theatre news, West End reviews, and insights into both regional theatre and London theatre tickets, ensuring enthusiasts can stay up to date with everything from the biggest West End musicals to cutting-edge fringe theatre. We are passionate about encouraging and nurturing the performing arts in all their forms.

The spirit of theatre is alive and thriving, and BritishTheatre.com is at the forefront of delivering timely, authoritative news and information to theatre lovers. Our dedicated team of theatre journalists and critics works tirelessly to cover every production and event, making it easy for you to access the latest reviews and book London theatre tickets for must-see shows.