The Coronavirus pandemic has engulfed the world in recent weeks – causing devastation and destruction to society. With the Government attempting to reduce the speed of infection through social distancing and isolation, it has meant the arts have recently taken a massive blow. This is from the Broadway and West End having to close to small local theatres not knowing what the future may hold for their businesses.
Of course, the correct decision was taken to suspend theatrical works around the world, but that is not to say that it will heavily impact creatives, actors, scheduled performances, as well as audiences who had planned on seeing these pieces of theatre.
The huge amount of self-employed actors is unimaginable. This week, on social media, I have seen actors having to move out of there homes because of a lack of income and others who are devastated at their shows being unable to continue, or even begin – but there are still ways to help ensure the future of these artistic spheres.
Here are a few ways in which we can contribute:
1) Rebook your refunded tickets.
Of course, there is no certainty to when these theatres will reopen, but by rebooking, at least we can ensure advance payment to theatre venues.
2) If you are attending small theatre venues – don’t ask for a refund of the cancelled shows.
Small theatres like London’s Arcola Theatre, already charge little for amazingly unique and brilliant performances, if you can afford to not claim a refund then this small contribution will ensure theatres like The Arcola can stay open, and continue paying it’s staff. Of course, don’t put yourself out of pocket doing so!
3) If you can, donate to the theatre.
There are many theatre charities to support – supporting the survival of businesses and helping out unemployed actors. Here are a few links to some of them:
www.actorsbenevolentfund.co.uk
www.equity.org.uk
4) You can still engage in the theatre – don’t stop!
The theatre is such an important place – people, even during war time, would use the theatre as a mode of escape. You can read plays (I can readily make suggestions) – this way you are still supporting playwrights and the theatrical publishing industry – discuss theatre with your friends, sings musical ballads really loud (so much you will annoy the rest of your family in the house), but also some organisations are looking to bring theatre alive online.
Some companies are looking to broadcast theatre right to your laptop or tablet – to help people in these distressing times. Venues such as the National Theatre are considering making available some performances which have already been filmed.
These four points highlight just how necessary the arts are for both the individual and the collective – and in this current climate, we need more collaboration than anything. We need people coming together, working as one unit – by following Government guidelines, despite whether we agree or not, be respectful of infection and people around you, rather than being individualistic and causing more issues in the long run (and yes, I am talking about those scaremongering and panic buying).
I think it’s important to mention that it’s not only theatre which is a great mode of distraction – there are so many other way of artistically spending your time.
– Write a blog
– Draw
– Learn calligraphy
– Write a short story
– Attempt (and in my case, fail) writing some poetry
These next few months need for us to ensure the survival of our artistic sector, and work collectively and creatively to help one another.
Please support the arts and don’t panic.
Oh! You Little Things 