UK Prime Minister postpones indoor performances start by a fortnight

The resumption of indoor activities, including theatres, bowling alleys, skating rinks, and more, will be delayed until 15 August.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced on Friday that it's time to "squeeze the brake pedal" and that the reopening of indoor activities, such as casinos, bowling alleys, and theatres, will be delayed by a fortnight until 15 August. These endeavors were previously announced to resume this weekend on 1 August, but Johnson delayed the reopening due to a concern over increased coronavirus cases.

In addition to social distancing protocols, Johnson announced that masks will be required in more indoor spaces, including cinemas. Face coverings will become enforceable by law on 8 August. Cases in England are increasing for the first time since May, and these steps are being taken to contain and slow the spread of the virus. 

Outdoor theatre performances are permitted to resume from August. Jesus Christ Superstar at Regent's Park Open Air Theatre is scheduled to start performances on 14 August. As far as indoor performances scheduled to start, new musical Sleepless has announced performance dates for August. 

The Covid-19 shutdown continues to be difficult on the arts community. On Thursday, Ambassador Theatre Group, the largest employer in UK theatre, announced that it would lay off 1200 staff members, citing the delay in receiving the arts recovery package from the government as one of the reasons.