Last year, all London theatres were forced to stop functioning due to the impending threat of the COVID-19 pandemic. Theatres remained shut for over a year. Even iconic shows like the Mousetrap and the Woman in Black that have been staged thousands of times on various West End stages were forced to stop production. Some London theatres did briefly functioned towards the end of the year. However, it did not remain so for long. The steady rise in COVID-19 cases forced the government to call for a nation-wide lockdown, causing theatres to shut down once again - indefinitely.
The new roadmap released by the UK government accounted for theatres to reopen from May 17th under the third step of the government’s Coronavirus guidelines. Step 3 will last till 21st June, wherein all London theatres will start functioning with several restrictions and safety measures in place. What are these safety measures put in place by the government? Let’s find out.
While some West End shows reopened as early as May 17th, others chose to wait a while. Over the next few months, many more West End shows are set to reopen, including many renown shows like Matilda, Cinderella, and the mousetrap. Let’s take a look at all the West End shows that have already reopened or are reopening soon.
You are requested to not attend West End shows if you:
Even though it has barely been a couple of weeks since West End shows have started again, theatres are seeing a considerable number of guests. Because of the current reduction in the number of seats available, it is recommended that you book your West End tickets a couple of days in advance.
Apart from the mandatory donning of masks and othe protective gears, indoor theatres will run at 50% capacity, with a maximum of 1000 people in each show. Outdoor shows, on the other hand, can have a maximum of 4000 viewers. While you will be able to sit with your friends or family, there will be sufficient gap between two groups.
Wherever possible, entry and exit points will be separated to minimize contact. The theatre staff will guide you through the entire process. Pre-booking of meals will be available to prevent over-crowding. In short, all precautions are being taken to ensure that social distancing is maintained throughout the show.
While London theatres are currently following all the necessary social distancing measures, this will not be the case always. According to the roadmap issued by the government, these restrictions will be lifted as soon as the country enters step 4 on 21st June, provided that the pandemic is under control. Therefore, it is safe to say that theatres will return to normal sooner rather than later.
West End reopened it’s door to the public on 17th May, 2021.
Yes. West End shows are open and accepting bookings. You can book London Theatre tickets with us to avail of exciting discounts.
Death Drop, Love Letters, and Roles We'll Never Play are some of the first West End shows to reopen post pandemic.
Everyone can attend West End shows as long as they are not COVID positive, have experienced symptoms in the last 14 days, have been in close proximity to anyone who has experienced symptoms in the last 14 days, etc.
Yes. All London theatres have reopened with safety measures strictly in place. Therefore, it is safe for guests to visit London theatres.
West End shows are currently running at 50% capacity or with 1000 guests, whichever number is lower.
The government has announced that social distancing measures and other restrictions will be lifted as soon as the country enters step 4 on 21st June.
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