Socially-Distant Concerts: A New Era in Live Music

A concert held in the English city of Newcastle may demonstrate how socially-distant concerts will work in the future. Singer-songwriter Sam Fender’s recent show at Virgin Money Unity Arena saw 2500 people take their places in 500 metal enclosures on raised platforms in a pop-up venue in Gosforth Park.

The concert is the UK’s first live music event since the COVID-19 lockdown began, and it marks the beginning of a series of shows scheduled to occur at the venue in the coming weeks. Other performers, including Van Morrison, Bill Bailey, Ronan Keating, Supergrass, and Adam Kay, are due to take the stage in August and September. Fans will enjoy the performances in groups of up to five people, all from separate viewing platforms that are spaced 6.5ft apart to ensure safety.

Upon arrival, guests can anticipate a smoothly organized experience. Cars will be parked at a two-meter distance from each other to facilitate social distancing. Moreover, entry will be checked via license plates, thereby minimizing direct interaction between venue staff and attendees. Once inside, concert-goers will follow a socially-distanced queuing system leading to their personal enclosure, where they can place food and drink orders. Additionally, there is an option to pre-order refreshments.

After the concert concludes, attendees are advised to maintain their distance from others. Staff will provide direction back to the car and assist in a safe exit from the site. The socially-distant events have been organized by Virgin Money and SSD Concerts, who reported that the Sam Fender gig was a tremendous success. Further information can be found on the Virgin Money Unity Arena website.

Lockdowns are easing globally as the planet adjusts to a new normal. Discover how COVID-19 is changing travel and entertainment.