Theatres seek easing of social distancing rules

Performing art venues in Scotland are calling for a relaxing of planned social distancing reopening rules. In Level 2, theatres, cinemas and other entertainment venues can reopen for the first time this year but must allow for more than two metres of social distancing between guests.

Uncertainty in the sector, which has no clear idea when social distancing rules may be lifted, is making it difficult for venues to plan.

Eleven of Scotland’s top performing arts venues, with the Federation of Scottish Theatre (FST), want the Scottish Government to “urgently” review social distancing requirements.

Eden Court’s chief executive, James MackenzieBlackman, said: “The impact of operating with two metre plus means a meaningful restart for our sector is almost impossible.

“The Federation of Scottish Theatre surveyed its members and 96% of them said that it would be economically unviable for us to reopen while social distancing remains at this level.

“Just to give you an example of my own venue here in Inverness I can normally seat just under 900 people in my main house auditorium.

“Under the current guidance I can seat no more than around 148.”

Meanwhile His Majesty’s Theatre in Aberdeen, which can hold 1,491 people, will only be able to seat 193 – 17% of its capacity.

The Scottish Theatre Producing Consortium – which includes Eden Court and Aberdeen Performing Arts – has now appealed to the Scottish Government seeking emergency funding for venues if the sector is forced to remain closed.

Mr Mackenzie-Blackman believes that reducing social distancing measures to one metre would make a significant difference.

From Monday hospitality businesses will be allowed to operate with one metre social distancing between tables.

“We think that doesn’t make any sense, and we want to work with government to ensure we can support community recovery,” he said, adding: “Our buildings are not just performing arts venues, we are vital cogs in our communities.”

CONCERN: Director Steven Wren, front, and James Mackenzie-Blackman when the Eden Court panto was cancelled. Picture by Sandy McCook.

His Majesty’s Theatre in Aberdeen.