'We're looking at all possibilities.' King's Lynn theatre battles to save shows as pressure on arts sector builds
Bosses of a Lynn entertainment venue say they are looking at all possibilities for when, and how, live shows might be able to resume.
Officials at the town's Corn Exchange have confirmed that discussions are taking place with promoters and performers about events which were due to take place there over the coming months.
The announcement comes amid growing fears that the arts sector nationally will be devastated if theatres are forced to remain closed because of concerns over the coronavirus.
Yesterday, Norwich Theatre Royal blamed its current financial losses for the decision to postpone its Christmas pantomime to next year, saying it could not commit to the up-front costs of the show now.
Meanwhile, the boss of Hunstanton's Princess Theatre, Brian Hallard, fears performers won't return to the stage until January, though he does plan to start film screenings next month.
Neil Gromett, managing director of the Corn Exchange's operator, Alive West Norfolk, said: "At Alive we understand how important theatre and the arts is to the local community, and we are excited to open our doors and welcome people back in as soon as we have confirmation from the government it’s safe to do so.
"We are working hard behind the scenes to make sure when it is safe to open we are ready.
"With the theatre, we are currently looking at show dates for the autumn and are in discussions with promoters and artists.
"It’s not just a case of if we can open our doors, but also if the tour or show will still go ahead as scheduled.
"We are talking regularly with Jordan Productions about this year’s pantomime Beauty and the Beast.
"Obviously we are all keen for this to still happen. It is a big part of what we do and very much a family tradition for our customers.
"We are still awaiting further advice from the government, but we are looking at all possibilities."
Mr Gromett added that the new cinema, which is being developed on the first floor of the building, will be able to open with social distancing measures in place, once building work is completed.
Earlier this month, councillors were told the project was now expected to be completed in August, with the first screenings potentially taking place in September.
