Theatres cancel shows over rising Covid cases

Last week theatres across the country were forced to cancel or postpone shows amid rising Covid infections.

The Viaduct in Halifax cancelled performances of As You Like It, with ticket buyers offered reallocated tickets or a refund.

Edinburgh’s King Theatre cancelled five days of its Sunshine on Leith, due to Covid affecting cast members. The theatre, which was hosting its last show before closing for a £25m redevelopment project, says all ticket holders will be contacted for a refund.

Also in Edinburgh, Lyceum theatre cancelled last week’s performances of its Laurel and Hardy show, with performances expected to restart this week.

Leicester’s Curve Theatre announced its production of Billy Elliot: The Musical will begin a week later than scheduled, on 13 July rather than 7 July, after a number of Covid cases among company members.

Ireland’s national theatre, The Abbey, has cancelled performances of Translations, from 17 June to 25 June, also citing Covid. A spokesperson said ticket holders will be contacted, and the show expected to continue from 27 June.