What to expect from the First Night of the Proms

The Proms is welcoming audiences back to the Royal Albert Hall from tomorrow, and the start of the annual festival signals the return to a kind of concert-going audiences haven't witnessed for well over a year. But Covid regulations are still in play, and a number of changes have been made to ensure safety isn't compromised. Here's what you might be able to expect.

The programme

Dalia Stasevska will lead the BBC Symphony Orchestra and BBC Singers in a performance of Vaughan Williams’s Serenade to Music – written to celebrate Proms founder-conductor Henry Wood’s 50 years on the podium and premiered by him at his jubilee concert in the Royal Albert Hall in 1938. Sir James MacMillan's When Soft Voices Die receives its world premiere, and Poulenc’s Organ Concerto will celebrate the Hall's Organ in all its glory. 

How do I watch?

The first half will be broadcast on BBC Two, second half on BBC Four at 9.05pm.

For prommers, tickets will go on sale at 9am on the day of the concert - but will this year be sold online only.

For the first time prommers are able to book two promming tickets per concert, and tickets cost just £6 (plus £1.12 booking fee).

Book tickets here. 

What happens when I arrive at the Royal Albert Hall?

In order to enter the Royal Albert Hall, those aged 18 and over will be required to demonstrate one of the following:

1. evidence of a negative lateral flow test shown via text or email from the Government website, either taken at home or at a test centre, within 48 hours of the performance:

• To report negative lateral flow test result: https://www.gov.uk/report-covid19-result
• How to get free NHS Lateral Flow tests: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/testing/regular-rapid-coronavirus-tests-if-you-do-not-have-symptoms/

2. evidence of double vaccination provided via the NHS App (England, Scotland, NI and Wales Apps are all accepted), vaccination card, or letter provided by the NHS 

3. proof of natural immunity based upon a positive PCR test taken within 180 days of the performance double vaccination, negative test or proof of natural immunity via an EU Digital Covid Certificate

Those aged 18 years will be treated as adults and will need to show proof of their Covid Status on entry as above.

What about under-18s?

Under 18s should take a lateral flow test within 48 hours of the performance. Parents or guardians will be asked to show proof of the negative result on their behalf. All unaccompanied 16 to 18s will be required to show proof of their negative lateral flow test to enter the Royal Albert Hall. (Evidence of a negative test can be registered via the Government website: https://www.gov.uk/report-covid19-result)

Unfortunately without the above evidence you will be turned away from the Royal Albert Hall.

Do I need to wear a face mask?

Audiences are strongly encouraged to wear face coverings for the duration of their visit.

What if I or someone I live with contracts Covid-19, meaning I can't attend?

You can apply for a refund from this form up to 9am on the day of the performance.

For more information click here.