Plans to lift coronavirus restrictions in England were welcomed by the entertainment industry as the government was again asked to provide additional support and advice to the sector.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced today (Monday) that England’s coronavirus restrictions are expected to be lifted on so-called “Freedom Day” on July 19th.
Mark Davyd, founder and chief executive of the Music Venue Trust charity, said in a tweet following the announcement that he felt “strangely numb, like I almost can’t believe it”.
“There is still a lot to be done, but we may actually have made it,” he added.
In an additional statement, Davyd said the move was “obviously extremely welcome news for millions of music fans, artists, crews, venues and local communities who have been deprived of live music for so long”.
Entertainment union leader Bectu welcomed the further relaxation of lockdown restrictions, but said the cultural sector was still facing “confusion” over some rules.
Philippa Childs said in a statement:
“The end of social distancing restrictions is welcome news for theaters, venues and events that have had to close for over a year, but the ongoing confusion over isolation rules and wearing masks means there will be no return to normal business on July 19th.
“The government needs to work to build public confidence in the safety of the venues and understanding of the new guidelines.
“With much of the sector expected to lose vital revenues two summers in a row, some bridging support will be critical to avoid mass layoffs and ensure a successful recovery.”
Sacha Lord, nightly economic advisor, said he was “excited about anyone involved in nightlife” after the government update, but said ministers needed to ensure business continued support.
He added:
“We must acknowledge that with the crippling debt burden accumulated over the past 18 months, these companies will struggle to survive for at least the next three years.
“It is imperative that the government continue to support the sectors hardest hit by this crisis in order to avert a generation of unemployment and bankruptcy.”
Paul Reed, General Manager of the Association of Independent Festivals, welcomed the announcement but called for a government-sponsored insurance system.
However, he said the move was late for a number of music festivals, adding:
“We now urge the government to finally take action on insurance and immediately announce a government-sponsored program.
“Insurance remains the main barrier to trustful planning, and there is no reason not to implement such a system when the government’s roadmap is truly irreversible.”
Julian Bird, executive director of the Society of London Theater and UK Theater, said the announcement was “a lifeline” for the industry.
In a statement, Mr Bird added:
“We welcome today’s confirmation that on July 19th the remaining lockdown restrictions will be lifted – meaning the theaters will be open to the full audience for the first time in 16 months.
“This is a lifeline for our industry that is essential to the survival of theaters across the country.
“We will be working closely with the government in the coming days to revise the performing arts guidelines to ensure our audiences and staff can feel safe and confident when they return.”
James Williams, executive director of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, called for clear guidelines on the safety of concert halls from the government.
He said:
“While the government’s announcement that it will lift Covid restrictions on July 19 gives us all the hope we need, the government has so far failed to provide the performing arts with a sustainable operational roadmap that would support the economic viability of the Performances guaranteed. ”And the safety of venues, artists and audiences.
“Restoring public confidence and reassurance that it is safe to return to the concert hall and enjoy live performances is an important task to perform.”