

“It is also disappointing that the producers do not feel sufficiently supported by the government. Responding to the announcement about The Mirror and the Light, Hilary Hadley of the actors’ union Equity said: “It is deeply disappointing for our members to have been given notice that the production will close at the end of November and that they will now be out of work during the Christmas period. We would be so grateful if you could help us out and do your bit too.” We are working so hard on our end to ensure everyone is safe and to keep our shows running. Stephanie McKeon, who plays Anna in the West End production of Frozen, tweeted on Sunday: “A plea to amazing London audiences: Please please please wear your masks in the theatre. Theatre-goers tend to be older and may be more cautious about the risks of infection. Most theatres have voluntarily implemented Covid measures such as improving ventilation, requiring proof of vaccination or a recent negative test, and urging audiences to wear face masks.īox office sales have been slower than before the pandemic, and many theatres have had empty seats. Many theatres reopened in May but initially struggled with cancellations of performances due to cast and crew members testing positive for Covid or isolating after coming into contact with someone with the virus. A quarter of freelancers had gone out of business or ceased trading because of the pandemic. A survey published in March 2021 by the Society of London Theatre and UK Theatre found collective losses of almost £200m in the previous 12 months. UK theatres suffered catastrophic losses after closing because of restrictions relating to the pandemic.

The production had a cast of 24 and “has created work for hundreds of freelance practitioners after an impossible year”, the statement said. The producers’ statement said it had “enjoyed a hugely successful run, delighting audiences with many commenting that this was their first trip back to the theatre since the initial lockdown 18 months ago”. The stage version of The Mirror and the Light, the third part of Mantel’s Wolf Hall trilogy, opened in September. But some scientists have warned that such measures may have to be reintroduced if Covid infections and hospitalisations increase. It does not include social distancing measures or the closure of hospitality and entertainment venues.


The government’s “plan B” includes mandatory mask wearing in crowded indoor places, encouraging people to work from home if possible, and a requirement to prove Covid vaccination status to gain entry to nightclubs. Over the last week, there has been speculation that some Covid restrictions may be reintroduced because of the rising rates of infection and pressure on the NHS.
