...but will social distancing make them unviable?

Boris Johnson has signalled that live indoor performances can resume as early as August 1.

The measure was announced today as part of a raft of moves to relax lockdown rules and revive the British economy.

However, any reopening would still have to be done in a ‘Covid-secure way’, almost certain to mean limited audience sizes which could prove unviable for many theatres and comedy clubs.

Speaking at a a Downing Street press conference, the Prime Minister said that from August 1: ‘We will restart indoor performances to a live audience subject to the success of pilots, and we will also pilot larger gatherings in venues such as sports stadia in view of a wider reopening in the autumn

‘All of these measures for August 1 should be done in a Covid-secure way.’ 

He added: ’From October  we intend to bring back audiences in stadia… again these changes must be done in Covid-secure way subject to the successful outcome of pilots.’

Bowling alleys, skating rinks, casinos and beauticians are also set to reopen on August 1, but nightclubs and soft play areas will remain closed, but under review.

Johnson that his timetable for reopening businesses ’is contingent on every one of us staying alert and acting responsibly’.

But his urge to reopen the economy is said to be at odds with the government’s scientific advisors.

Published: 17 Jul 2020