Eden Court Theatre, the largest combined arts space in Scotland, has reopened its doors after a six-month hiatus.
The news comes following the announcement that the Highlands will be placed under Tier 1 COVID-19 restrictions.
The venue has undergone a “socially distanced makeover” to ensure the safety of its customer and looks forward to welcoming cinema goers from the 29th October. While the rest of the theatre will remain closed for now, the team is hopeful that larger audiences will return as restrictions continue to ease.
Eden Court is among the arts venues negatively affected by the global pandemic, having lost over 89% of its income in 2020. This is largely due to the cancellation of its annual pantomime.
With the job retention scheme coming to an end, and having received emergency funding, the team decided the time was right to fulfil their “civic duty” and reopen the establishment.
However, it does not come without financial risk. Eden Court estimate that they need to take a minimum of £1000 per day in tickets, food and drink to cover their costs.
In a blog post, CEO James Mackenzie-Blackman, said “we can’t rebuild Eden Court without you. We’re in it together and we’re ready to go.”
Words by Sophie Parsons.
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