Indoor performances with socially distanced audiences allowed to return from tomorrow

Indoor performances with live audiences were originally expected to return on 1 August, but were delayed due to a rise in new coronavirus cases.

BBC reports that during his latest COVID-19 briefing, Boris Johnson confirmed that more lockdown restrictions would be eased from tomorrow (15 August).

The latest announcement confirmed that indoor theatre, music and performance venues in England will be allowed to reopen and host socially distanced audiences from Saturday (15 August).

Johnson's update on lockdown easing arrives just days after Sam Fender played the UK's first socially distanced gig in Newcastle's Virgin Money Unity Arena on Tuesday (12 August).

His announcement also revealed that there will be bigger fines for those that don't follow the rules. A maximum fine of £3,200 can be issued to people repeatedly refusing to wear a mask. Organisers of illegal gatherings/raves of more than 30 people could also be faced with a hefty fine of £10,000.

The Prime Minister also reiterated that the UK government won't "hesitate to put on the brakes if required, or to continue to implement local measures to help to control the spread of the virus."

Music Venue Trust have since released a statement responding the Johnson's decision. It reads, "Unfortunately, it remains the case that the vast majority of grassroots music venues are not financially able, or even have the physical premises layout, to deliver these newly permitted events. Those that can make social distancing work will be unlikely to be able to stage government compliant events tomorrow with this much notice."

The statement continues, "However, despite the challenges the announcement presents, we broadly welcome this progress towards the return of live music."

Statement on the Government Announcement on Indoor Live Performance Events pic.twitter.com/OXF71teIRA

— Music Venue Trust (@musicvenuetrust) August 14, 2020