Relief for Covid-hit theatres as the Chancellor announces £1bn fund to help businesses

Restaurants, bars, cinemas, and theatres can apply for a grant of up to £6000 for each of their premises outlined by Chancellor Rishi Sunak.

Many businesses in the hospitality, leisure, and entertainment sectors have recently been hit by a rise in booking cancellations as well as Covid-related absentees by staff. Despite theatres taking their own precautionary measures earlier this month for their guests at venues, cast and crew absenteeism due to the rise in Omicron cases has resulted in cancellations of big productions including Cinderella, Hamilton, The Lion King, Wicked, and many others. Mr Sunak said that “the government would also help some firms with the cost of sick pay for Covid-related absences”. 

The Chancellor’s announcement will be especially welcomed by smaller theatre venues around the country which generate a large percentage of their annual revenue during the Christmas period; although this is not an ideal situation, the grant offers much-needed aid.