Bristol Old Vic have announced that they will guarantee a selection of socially distanced shows until March 2022.
The theatre has said there will be two performances each week which will remain social distanced throughout its autumn/winter season. Masks must be worn at these performances.
Alongside this, they will continue to film or live broadcast all of their main productions. As such, audiences, both locally and worldwide, can enjoy live theatre at home.
The theatre will be implementing the See It Safely protocols, and they have listed some additional safety measures to ensure a safe and comfortable environment on their website. Some of these include staff continuing to wear face coverings, increased ventilation and one-way systems.
Previously, the theatre has been operating at less than 50% capacity since theatres re-opened in May.
Executive Director of Bristol Old Vic Charlotte Geeves said: “Today’s announcement of the end to restrictions in England mean theatres can remove all social distancing measures and sell productions at full capacity for the first time since March 2020. However, public confidence varies widely. Some people are rushing through the doors, keen to sit side-by-side in a buzzing auditorium, while others are feeling more cautious.
“This theatre belongs to everyone, so we wanted to make sure everyone has the opportunity to return to the theatre in their own time and in a way that feels right to them.”
Words by Katie Heyes
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Image Credit: “Bristol Old Vic” by samsaundersbristol is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0