Over the coming months theatres across the UK are opening up their doors and welcoming audiences back following over 500 days of closure. Auditoriums and bars are being deep cleaned, crews are working long hours in strict bubbles to keep them COVID free, and front of house teams are being trained to provide the best possible service, with a close eye on safety.

I can’t wait to go back to the theatre. I know that I will be emotional as the lights dim, the overture starts and I enjoy a musical or play with another thousand or so people. Being part of an audience is the whole point of a trip to the theatre. Experiencing a story as part of a collective is a thrill few other arts provide. So, with a thousand strangers in mind, how are theatres planning on keeping us safe?

Here are some of the steps venues around the country have taken and some resources to help you feel more at ease when you decide to go back to your favourite theatre.

1. Vaccinations

Most theatres are asking for vaccination passports or confirmation of a negative test, so you can rest assured that everyone sharing your space is vaccinated and isn't showing symptoms. Your chosen venue will inform you of their personal requirements but if you want an indication of what to expect then West End and London theatres and ATG Venues have some good information.

2. Masks

Hospitality staff in the theatre will be wearing masks unless they are exempt. Most theatres recommend the audience wear face coverings. While they can’t legally enforce it, you will be in an enclosed space with a large group of people. It comes down to personal preference, but consideration and kindness towards others never hurts. 

3. Enhanced Cleaning

Most venues will have sanitisation stations dotted around their front of house. They are also thoroughly cleaned daily - this happened before but now it’s important to shout about it. Plus staff clean their work stations at the start and end of their shift, so you can trust the bars and kiosks will be sparkling.

4. Cashless and At-Seat Ordering

Just like most pubs and restaurants the theatre is becoming cashless. This limits the amount of contact people have and speeds up service. Anyone remember the queues at a theatre bar? Now you can beat it by ordering via an app so that you can have things waiting at your seats as you arrive or pre-order for the interval. It’s always worth checking if your local venue does this as it’s really fun to have an ice cream hand-delivered as soon as the interval starts.

5. E-Tickets Are The New Normal

In a similar vein to limiting contact, a lot of venues are changing to electronic tickets - it’s been on the cards for a while but now it just makes sense. Expect to be scanning a QR code at the door, or showing an email confirmation. Make sure you check what your theatre provides, as there’s nothing worse than a panic at the door when you can’t find the email or your phone is out of battery.

The theatre has had a really rough year and a half. Thousands of technicians, performers and front of house teams have been struggling to get by. Working in the arts is a passion, and I guarantee the hundred or so people working in your local venue can’t wait to have you back. 

If you’re concerned, reach out to them. A lot of theatres are really present on social media, and there’s always an email to contact someone. 

There are some incredible shows touring over the next year. At the Bristol Hippodrome (my home theatre) and many others across the UK you can watch Les Miserables, Beauty and the Beast, there’s even a brand new production of Bedknobs and Broomsticks.

Don't miss out on any more theatre because of COVID!!

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Written by Laura Pick