There has been a lot of speculation recently about when theatres will reopen. This is all guesswork and while they may be educated guesses, it can be dangerous and not at all helpful to an already vulnerable industry.
While Cameron Mackintosh has said he doesn't expect theatres to reopen until 2021, the truth is he is none the wiser to the rest of us. Nothing like this has ever happened before so what happens next is uncharted territory. What we do know is theatre WILL return and when it does, we will all be there to support it. In the meantime, let's just stay positive and not focus on the scaremongering.
Here is a round up of the latest OFFICIAL news that we do know and can trust:
The society of London Theatre (SOLT) today issued this statement:
Theatres had previously been announced as being closed until May 31st so this extends it by another month.
However, what we do know is we are through the peak of this pandemic and plans to ease lockdown are in place. The decision to extend the closures a month at a time comes with the uncertainty of the future and the hope that theatres can open their doors sooner than some "experts" might think.
Today, ATG announced that Sunday In The Park With George starring Jake Gyllenhaal will be postponed until 2021. Rather than transfer tickets over, anyone with tickets will receive a full credit voucher to use again when the next dates are announced.
It's not all doom and gloom though. Theatre Support Fund have unveiled a gorgeous range of charity products with the message "The show must go on" featuring letters from 16 different West end shows. All proceeds go towards Acting for others, The Fleabag support fund and the NHS Covid-19 Urgent Appeal. Show your support for our beloved industry by ordering yours at theatresupportfund.co.uk. I've bought mine!
Remember, while it might seem tough now, this won't last forever. To quote Les Miserables
"Even the darkest night will end and the sun will rise"