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21
Jul 2020
Knaresborough theatre 'can't open' due to social distancing
Knaresborough's Frazer Theatre has said it will remain closed until 2021 because it is not possible to observe social distancing and be financially viable.
The theatre, which is just off the town's high street, has a capacity of 127 people but with social distancing this number would decrease hugely.
It has therefore decided to put the safety of its audience and volunteers first and postpone reopening.
John Pearce, vice-chairman of Frazer Theatre, said it was financially secure and lucky to be able to stay closed with minimal expenses because it is run entirely by volunteers.
Rehearsals at the theatre, which staged about 180 performances last year, will therefore resume no earlier than March 2021.
Mr Pearce said:
Read more:
- Pateley Bridge Playhouse has been hit hard by Covid but remains hopeful for the future.
- District theatres have no plans to move outdoors even after government regulations allow it.
The theatre is hopeful that restrictions will eventually ease enough to allow it to reopen. But it is concerned about the overall impact the pandemic could have on the arts in the district. Mr Pearce added:
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