Will theatres ever be open?

[MrsDanielCleaver]

Are theatres open yet? I loved taking my children but I can't see how it can possibly work. Presumably panto is off as they can't rehearse or sell tickets yet? I miss going but with the risk or local lockdowns, one of the performers having to isolatenor whatever I am wondering when we'll ever be able to go back?

It’s v difficult because with social distancing they can’t make the money they need. It’s so sad, I really miss it.

Until there’s a vaccine I don’t think they’ll get back to normal.

There will be live theatre. Some are starting to open at the moment. Pantos are off and there will certainly be a change - probably more outside next year and building up while the vaccine is issued.

I pity theatre directors and producers with trying to master this, think the biggest obstacle is that of insurance.
You only need a single actor, bar tender, costume assistant whatever to get a case and the whole audience needs reimbursement.

It's an awful situation for the entire entertainment industry

Not until at least next spring, I'd imagine. A lot are going to close

Our local theatre has cancelled panto as not only do they need to play to full houses to make the money, they also can't guarantee that a staff member may not have to self isolate halfway through the run.

Depends where you live.
Theatres are opening in sensible countries like most of Australia, NZ, and the Isle of Man.
Being islands (like the UK) they used that advantage (unlike the UK) of being able to easily temporarily close their borders.
As a result they have coronavirus cases under control (small outbreaks have been swiftly dealt with).

I'm feeling very gloomy about the whole situation - all those poor actors, dancers, musicians, designers, lighting engineers, etc.

People will be very reluctant to book ahead in case the event doesn't happen, for whatever reason. So many of us with unused tickets already, that are on hold.