Our plans for the next few months.
The ongoing coronavirus pandemic has obviously affected many arts organisations up and down the country, and the Rondo is no exception.
We have taken the difficult decision to remain closed until at least March 2021 and want to update you – our wide and valued community of theatre lovers, volunteers, artists, companies and supporters.
Our Income and the Pandemic
Our income depends on bookings from theatre companies, community groups and tour bookers. Between March and August, we could not open, by law. From August to early November, we could open, but social distancing regulations reduced audience numbers so much that it wasn’t economically viable for companies to come.
Looking Ahead and Staying Afloat
We expect this will be the way of things for the next few months: either being legally unable to open, or being allowed to open, but under restrictions that are too much of a financial challenge.
We are very glad and relieved to say we secured a grant from Arts Council England, in conjunction with the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. It covers our costs until March.
In March, we hope that we will be able to re-open, subject to the regulations and restrictions.
After March
If we can reopen in March, we won’t be returning to the old “normal”. But like many other organisations, we will have clear processes for all parts of our community: artists, audiences and volunteers. That will include contingencies for refunds and rebooking in the case of postponed or cancelled shows. We will update you nearer the time about this.
In the meantime
While we’re closed, we’re working hard behind the scenes. We’re putting together a brilliant programme of the kind of exciting theatre, comedy and music we know you love seeing at the Rondo. We are very much looking forward to welcoming you back into a COVID-safe theatre.
Finally, we’d like to say a huge thank you for your patience and understanding and to Arts Council England, whose grant ensures our survival through winter 2020 – and hopefully into a brighter spring.
Stay safe, be kind and be well.
Love from all at the Rondo.