Search icon

News

05th Dec 2021

Entertainment industry faces uncertainty over new capacity rules

Sarah McKenna Barry

Organisers of indoor entertainment are currently working on ways to adapt to the new measures.

Representatives of entertainment venues have called for patience from customers as they adapt to the latest Covid-19 measures.

From Tuesday, indoor entertainment venues must operate at half capacity. These measures are set to remain in place until 9 January 2022.

Since news of capacity restrictions were announced, many theatre operators have issued updates to customers ahead of performances.

In a statement shared on Instagram, the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre said that they are working with Disney Theatrical Productions to “determine how best to manage bookings” for their upcoming performances of The Lion King.

They assured their ticket holders that they would all receive an update from Ticketmaster before close of business on 10 December.

The Gaiety Theatre also issued an update on their pantomime, The Little Mermaid. On Instagram, they said that they are “working to find the best possible solution”, and that they “will be in touch with all customers” before their scheduled performances.

Organisers of the Helix Panto posted a statement on Instagram which praised their cast and crew for performing despite the uncertainty.

They said: “Last night, this beautifully talented cast performed out of their skin, despite moments earlier listening to their livelihoods being thrown into jeopardy again. The show must must go on, and our audience loved them for it.

“We’ll keep going until we can’t and hope the government stay true to their word of supports. We’ll do everything we can to make you smile and live and laugh till your sides hurt and light up your hearts with magic of live theatre.”

Artists also shared their uncertainty regarding the latest restrictions.

Dermot Kennedy, who has scheduled performances in aid of Pieta House and Focus Ireland in the 3Arena, told his fans that he is team are working on a solution, and that he will figure something out.

Comedian Dara Ó Briain took to Twitter to express his bafflement at the challenge now facing the industry.