The Waterside Theatre in Derry may reopen in September
He argued that current restrictions make the move financially unviable and has criticised the Department of Communities for a lack of forethought.
The Waterside Theatre says it may reopen in September and the Millennium Forum has cancelled its annual Christmas pantomine until December 2021.
Said the Foyle MLA: “While we all look forward to a return to live performances, there needs to be a measured approach to reopening theatres and concert halls.
“They should not reopen until it is safe and sensible to do so.
“This announcement comes in the wake of the biggest theatres in North, including the Millennium Forum in my own constituency, making the difficult decision to cancel all performances until January 2021.
“In particular, the cancellation of Christmas pantomime, undoubtedly the most beloved event on their annual programme and one that generates a substantial portion of their yearly income, will have great repercussions.
“The move was not taken lightly and no doubt has been gut wrenching for all involved.
“At a time when theatres have announced massive sacrifices it is nonsensical in the absence of clarity on what support they will be given, for the Department to give the go-ahead for reopening.
“It will no doubt be met with much confusion from venues and performers alike.
“Current restrictions, predominantly the social distancing guidelines, pose massive constraints on venues.
“The majority of theatres can only facilitate 20-25% of their auditorium capacity which will have a knock on effect on their ability to generate a viable income.”
He added: “It bears the question; will the Department continue to provide financial support in order to sustain the industry in the challenging months ahead?
“Clarity on how the £33 million funding allocation is to be used to support the sector – including the venues and artists depending on it – must be provided as a matter urgency.
“The Arts Sector has made huge sacrifices at a time when their livelihoods have been decimated, it is critical that the Department provides continued support for the remainder of 2020.”
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