We have been asked “What’s going on at Highbury Theatre?” Well there is a LOT going on!! Highbury Theatre is in a very strong position and everyone within it is committed to returning to entertain our audiences as soon as circumstances allow.

The Prime Minister announced on Friday 17 July that theatres would be allowed to reopen on 1 August, but with restrictions on capacities and that this will be on a trial basis.  The Government has also made a distinction between Amateur and Professional theatre, and the new guidance applies to Professional theatres only.  We are still unsure when more advice will be available for Amateur theatre, and until we receive that advice, Highbury will remain closed for live performances and entertainment.

However, following our founder John English's philosophy that a good theatre never stands still, we are still planning for the future.  We are looking at the best way we can manage the theatre following the current relevant guidelines issued by the Government on things such as physical distancing, risk assessment, cleaning and protective equipment.

As part of that planning Highbury Film Club is making a trial screening of a short film, with a specially invited audience of Highbury management.  This will be to test the several procedures required for reopening for showing films. This will include

• Booking procedure
• Entry to the the building
• The use of hand sanitiser and face coverings which we have made mandatory for moving around the theatre
• Entry to the auditorium, including the management of physically distanced seating
• Exiting the building after the showing
• Tracing mechanisms to compliment the Government Test and Trace scheme

This is being done with a limited number of household groups to minimise any risks involved and the Coffee Shop and Bar will remain closed  After evaluating the practicality of this trial we will amend as necessary, then look at the possibility of opening for further film screenings.

As previously stated we will not reopen for plays until the Government allows, and we feel that it is safe and practical to do so, but when that time comes we will know that we will have the appropriate measures in place to keep people as safe as possible.

We’re planning to perform ‘Nell Gwynn’ by Jessica Swale as our reopening play, a rumbustious saucy romp that is just what is needed after these dire times.

MEMORIES

At what would have been the end of our 2019/20 season we’re taking a look back at all the wonderful productions that took place at Highbury Theatre from Blithe Spirit by Noel Coward last September to Barefoot in the Park by Neil Simon this February. If you missed any of the season's productions, or are in the midst of lockdown blues, take a look at the behind the scenes film below...

A huge congratulations and thank you to everyone who was involved, and an enormous thank you to our audiences for your continued support, and for your endless enthusiasm for theatre and the arts. We look forward to welcoming you all back when the theatre is re-opened .

TRAPPED
by Martin Walker

A chance meeting with an old man leads to the discovery of a tragic tale
and "a reminder to all the kids to be home in time and do as father tells them".