Statement of 8 December 2021 from Stephen Crocker, Chief Executive of Norwich Theatre

 

CORONAVIRUS STATEMENT

The safety of everyone who works at or visits Norwich Theatre and its three venues is of paramount importance and as an organisation we stand firm in our support of all efforts to combat COVID-19.

In light of the advice to the public issued by the Government on Wednesday 8 December, and in line with contingency plans we already have in place, we will immediately implement the new measures.

This includes mandatory face masks for customers and visitors, except those under the age of 11 or who are medically exempt. This applies at all times in the theatre, including in the auditorium, except when eating or drinking. All of our staff will also continue to wear masks in public areas.

We are not required to implement vaccine passport checks as the updated measures currently only apply to unseated indoor venues with more than 500 people.
Norwich Theatre’s three Christmas shows – Robin Good at the Playhouse which opened on Wednesday 8 December, Jack Frost in Stage Two, and Dick Whittington and his Cat at Norwich Theatre Royal which opens on Saturday 11 December – will go ahead with the requirement for audiences to wear face masks unless exempt.

We have your safety and your trust foremost in our minds and have made every effort to implement a robust set of COVID-secure modifications at Norwich Theatre during the pandemic.

We have installed a misting system into the roof at Norwich Theatre Royal to sanitise the auditorium between performances. Our pantomime casts and crews are ‘bubbled’ and backstage the theatre is zoned to keep performers, crew and audiences safe. Between the front door and your seats we have made a huge effort, with hand sanitisers, enhanced cleaning, air purifiers and the tireless work of our staff, to make you feel both safe and warmly welcome.

We will contact all bookers in advance of their show to remind them of the need to comply with these new guidelines and we ask all our customers to be patient.
We had a successful festive season last year, with three productions as part of A Right Royal Christmas, with audiences feeling safe, assured and entertained. When we reopened our doors in September this year, we have been welcoming audiences back to once again to safely enjoy the magic and togetherness of theatre.

We are confident that we can ensure that the Government’s new measures, and the renewed focus on COVID-safety, will not dampen festive spirits or enjoyment of our Christmas shows and we thank all our visitors and customers for their support.