The Future of Theatre in the UK
When the coronavirus roadmap out of lockdown was announced, theatre lovers were able to pencil in two significant dates: Monday 17 May, when theatres are planned to reopen with social-distancing measures in place, allowing only half of seats to be occupied, with a maximum capacity of 1,000, and Monday 21 June, when all spaces will hopefully open fully.
The Impact of the Pandemic on Theatre
Arguably, theatre is the art form that has suffered the most during the pandemic. Long-rehearsed productions were put on ice, jobs were furloughed, and many actors and freelance workers had to look elsewhere for employment. Even in normal times, venues and stage groups often struggle financially, and lockdown has only exacerbated that situation. Since the curtain first came down in March 2020, some theatres managed to open and close throughout the year, while others remained shut for the duration.
‘People without independent financial support will have been less able to weather the hiatus, so we may have lost some diversity in those who get to tell stories,’ London-based theatre director Jeremy Herrin notes. ‘When we return, I’m sure the redundancies and diminished budgets will be evident, but the passion to tell stories and make connections won’t fade. Big questions are being asked about equality: who makes work, which stories are being told, and who is watching them? The answers that come back will define how the industry moves forward from this extraordinary pause. I hope the opportunity is seized to open minds and challenge prejudice.’
Innovative Storytelling in Theatre
As in the film industry, online streaming provided a lifeline for many during the pandemic. The National Theatre launched an on-demand viewing platform for just under £10 a month, featuring highlights such as Frankenstein, Small Island, and War Horse. Additionally, Sadler’s Wells, the Edinburgh International Festival, Shakespeare’s Globe, and Southwark Playhouse streamed limited-run seasons of archive and new productions. These platforms became vital spaces for storytelling during a time of uncertainty.
Upcoming Productions to Watch
Once audiences can return to the theatre, there are exciting productions to look forward to. Ralph Fiennes will be touring a new one-man show of TS Eliot’s Four Quartets, and David Tennant is set to star in Good at the Harold Pinter Theatre. Moreover, the Barbican will feature Anything Goes and To Kill a Mockingbird at the Gielgud Theatre. Resurgent seasons at the Old Vic and the National Theatre will include Jeremy Herrin’s production of After Life, along with Neil Gaiman’s adaptation of The Ocean at the End of the Lane later in the year.
West End musicals are also making a return in May, such as Everybody’s Talking About Jamie and Six The Musical. Furthermore, outdoor theatre will thrive, with new venues joining the favorites, providing diverse options for audiences.
‘I’d say find something that catches your eye,’ Jeremy Herrin suggests. ‘It’s a great way to spend time with those you’ve missed over the past year, and theatres would greatly appreciate the support. If people value theatre, they should champion it as it’s an art form in which we excel.’
