'We are cautiously optimistic about the autumn': concert hall managers on the lifting of restrictions

On Monday 19 July, most restrictions on social contact were lifted across England. 

But many remain cautious, as cases soar and medical experts warn of a disastrous third wave if reopening continues. 

But what approaches are being taken by the heads of concert halls? Over the last few months venues have had to operate at reduced capacity in order to accommodate social distancing, which has taken its toll financially. 

But many are wary of removing restrictions completely, despite the obvious economic benefits of doing so.

Read more: Continued uncertainty in the arts as PM confirms 19 July removal of restrictions

John Gilhooly, director of Wigmore Hall, said: 'As the Hall closes on 1 August, we will continue with social distancing for the next two weeks.

'We are cautiously optimistic about the autumn. We will reopen on 1 September and will react to any changing circumstances,  as we have done right through the pandemic. 

'Nobody can accurately predict what the next six months will bring, so we have all sorts of contingencies in place. The government needs to listen to our ongoing concerns as it will take quite a while for the industry to get back on its feet.'

Snape Maltings concert hall in Suffolk is also proceeding with caution. When the government first published guidance about the lifting of restrictions, the team at Britten Pears Arts sent a survey out to audiences, asking for their opinions on returning to full capacity concerts. 

'After this survey,' explains chief executive Roger Wright, 'we decided that we will only be slightly increasing the capacity of Snape Maltings concert hall from the existing level, not yet to full capacity.

'We have put an extra allocation of tickets on sale for our daily August concerts, and will make sure that audiences have an empty seat either side of booked seats, but cannot guarantee empty seats in front or behind them.'

The hall's capacity will now stand at around 60%. In addition, there will be no physical tickets and the performances will continue to be without interval. Programme information will be sent to audiences beforehand and there will be presentation from the stage and surtitles to avoid the need for printed programmes. The organisers also recommend the continued wearing of face masks. 

Wright also points out that the relatively isolated home of Snape Maltings has made it an attractive option to audiences in the pandemic. 'In an area of outstanding natural beauty,' he says, 'it has proved to be a safe space during the pandemic as you can arrive in your bubble, having driven, cycled or walked to Snape. Once here, the expanse of the natural landscape and its fresh air make it relatively straightforward to offer space and distance for the public.'

Despite the precautions being taken, many fear that fully opening up will lead to the re-imposing of restrictions come autumn. Organisations across the music industry are calling for a government-backed insurance scheme, which would give organisers more confidence in planning ahead, even if restrictions are re-imposed.

UK Music's Jamie Njoku-Goodwin said: 'The insurance scheme government introduced for the film and TV industry has been hugely successful and has saved countless jobs and businesses,' he said. 'We now need the same for the live events sector, otherwise we risk losing some festivals and music events forever.'

Please note: this story is being updated regularly.