Covid-19 Guidelines Update: 7 September

Over the last 3 weeks, we have had the pleasure of welcoming our wonderful audiences and staff back to the theatre, as well as hosting some incredible Irish artists including Lisa Hannigan, Something Happens, The 4 Of Us, Emma Langford, Hothouse Flowers and more.

Covid-19 restrictions have meant that these events haven’t been like our usual shows, but they have nevertheless been extraordinarily uplifting and inspiring performances and some of them certainly shook the dust off the theatre after being closed for so long!

The recent announcement around the easing of these restrictions for the live performance sector is very welcome, and we look forward to slowly and carefully getting back to normal. We have taken some time to really consider the implications of these new guidelines on our specific context, and we have also been in touch directly with the relevant governmental and non-governmental bodies to clarify several questions which we had in relation to these changes.

Taking the comfort, health and safety of our audiences, staff and performers into account in light of these changes, and pending clarifications on some key issues, we have decided to adopt an incremental approach to introducing these changes into our own Covid-19 Guidelines.

Until next Thursday 16^th September, there will be no changes to our current guidelines. This means that face coverings will still be required during performances (including screenings) and our bar will remain closed until this date. These guidelines can be read in full here.

From next Thursday 16^th September onwards, we will be introducing the following measured changes to our Covid-19 Guidelines, and we will be in touch directly with ticket bookers to notify them of these changes. Please note, these guidelines are still subject to change.

From Thursday 16^th September…

• In line with government guidelines, audiences will be required to show Proof of Immunity in order to attend an event at the Whale Theatre. Under 18s who are in the care of a parent/guardian currently do not require Proof of Immunity. You may also be asked to show photo ID so please bring this with you.

• If you have already booked a ticket for an event taking place on/after 16^th September and cannot attend under these circumstances, please contact us and we will arrange a refund.

• Our bar will reopen with table service only. Patrons must remain seated while consuming food or drinks in the auditorium. No drinks will be served from the bar area.

• Patrons will still be encouraged to wear their masks during the performance, but masks may be removed once seated. Masks must still be worn while moving around in the theatre.

• We will slowly start to increase our capacity, but initially not to the maximum of 60% allowed for theatres. Additional tickets will be made available to those on waiting lists first before being released to the general public.

• All other Covid-19 Guidelines will remain in place until further notice.

Thank you for your continued support and patience while we navigate these changes and move towards a return to normal! All ticket bookers will be contacted directly in relation to these changes.

Your safety, and that of our staff and performers is of utmost importance to us, so please don’t hesitate to contact ask@whaletheatre.ie if you have any questions or concerns.