Theatres fear stage is set for fall in Christmas ticket sales

‘This will have a knock-on effect on theatres just emerging from significant loss of revenue in 2020-21’

THEATRES fear that the new Covid rules will cause audiences to stay away over Christmas and reduce ticket sales.

Plan B was cautiously welcomed by the sector as it allows theatres to remain open, albeit with mandatory masks, but bosses warned that the work from home guidance would have a “big impact” on the willingness of people to attend shows during the critical festive period.

It came as universities called off social events and Christmas fairs were scrapped by local groups and charities normally reliant on the revenue.

Dame Rosemary Squire, joint chief executive of Trafalgar Entertainment, who run the Trafalgar Theatre in the West End, currently home to Jersey Boys, welcomed the “clear and consistent” line on face coverings.

She added: “However, while these measures will increase confidence for some, there is a danger that further restrictions may amplify concern for others, particularly our more vulnerable audience members.

“We expect to be fielding calls as a result; and after a fairly extraordinary bounce-back over recent months, we are concerned at the potential for some customers simply to stay away over the crucial Christmas period.”

Theatre groups reported high call volumes yesterday as customers inquired about the new measures, with many asking for refunds.

Jon Morgan, director of the Theatres Trust, told The Stage that the new rules would have a “big impact” on people travelling and going to theatres.

He added: “This will have a knock-on effect on theatres’ viability at a vital time of year for the industry and Christmas shows that are just emerging from the significant loss of revenue in 2020 and early 2021.”

Meanwhile, Bath Spa University cancelled its carol service at the city’s abbey, and both Oxford and York universities scrapped all staff Christmas parties and lunches, with Oxford seeing a sharp rise in the number of infections.

King’s College London also cancelled its carol service, due to take place last night at Guy’s Hospital.

Housing provider South Liverpool Homes cancelled a Cook It event earlier this week, saying: “We must put the health and safety of our customers first.”