Why the answer to lockdown involves reaching out beyond the traditional theatre crowd
Few seated theatres will be compatible with commercially viable socially distanced performances - but immersive theatre and drive-ins may have some answers, says Lanre Bakare
Covid-19 has presented a challenge to the arts like never before, with 70% of the UK’s performing arts companies predicted to go out of business before the end of this year. But amid the dire landscape there is innovation, and whether dancing inside your car or temperature-checking audience members in a purposeful Big Brother-style scenario, a particular genre stands out: immersive theatre.
The cultural art form has put its hand up as the one that could bounce back quickest. The Great Gatsby is planning to reopen in October, months ahead of predictions for the West End. It is doing so by incorporating personal protective equipment (PPE) into its immersive performance – a form of theatre where audience members interact with the cast who perform in a specially designed set rather than on stage – and altering scenes to make sure physical-distancing measures are adhered to... Keep reading on The Guardian
Covid-19 has presented a challenge to the arts like never before, with 70% of the UK’s performing arts companies predicted to go out of business before the end of this year. But amid the dire landscape there is innovation, and whether dancing inside your car or temperature-checking audience members in a purposeful Big Brother-style scenario, a particular genre stands out: immersive theatre.
The cultural art form has put its hand up as the one that could bounce back quickest. The Great Gatsby is planning to reopen in October, months ahead of predictions for the West End. It is doing so by incorporating personal protective equipment (PPE) into its immersive performance – a form of theatre where audience members interact with the cast who perform in a specially designed set rather than on stage – and altering scenes to make sure physical-distancing measures are adhered to... Keep reading on The Guardian