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Beyond everything else the mixed messaging here does nothing to help with public confidence in returning to theatres and venues. We all have been working for months now to keep in touch with audiences and put stringent safety procedures in place 1)
to make our staff, artists and returning customers save. We have kept 2m distancing in all our plans. Made plans to reduce audiences to below regulations. All along working with artists and audiences to make our theatres a place of solace, safe, a beacon in dark days 2)
Now this confused message given to the general public that theatres should only have groups of 6, we think but maybe it’s 50 we’re not sure, lands to their ears as it’s not really safe to go to the theatre therefore damaging months of work. 3)
This needs a clear and defined message now not just about numbers but about safety and trust in the sector. We organizations cannot support our audiences and artists without that. I fully understand we all are facing huge challenges but the sector can actually help in messaging4)
As it is a core part of our work. The message needs to be clear. Theatres are not high risk places as long as guidelines are adhered to. Outdoor cultural events similarly. They are there to help us all through these hard times and help us reconnect to each other. 5)
If this is not the case I’m not sure what we’re meant to be doing anymore. We are a service industry full of amazing people ready to serve the common good but this needs urgent clarity to help us all @DeptAHG @Campaign4Arts @artscouncil_ie #SaveTheArts
