Is it really clear what live entertainment is allowed in town?

[ASEAN NOW News]

Having been stuck at home for so long, it is clear that everyone is starved of live entertainment.

 

This could be seen by the standing ovations recently, as shows re opened on Broadway and in the West End.

 

Here in Singapore some events have started to be promoted again, including the La Clique circus style show at the Marina Bay Sands.

 

However according to the National Arts Councils website restrictions are quite tough for productions and of course for the audiences as well.

 

It states that on the 6th of August 2021, the Multi-Ministry Taskforce announced the easing of safe management measures in steps, as long as the situation remains stable.

 

For example from 19 August 2021, live performances may have up to a maximum of 1,000 audience members if pre-event testing (PET) is conducted.

 

Charlie Lim (File photo)

 

If no pre-event testing (PET) is conducted, however, audiences are capped at a maximum of 50 persons.

 

Performers may unmask on stage, subject to the updated SMMs.

 

Live performances which involve singing and playing of instruments that require intentional expulsion of air (e.g., wind instruments), will only be permitted if all performers and crew are either: (i) fully vaccinated; (ii) recovered from COVID-19; or (iii) have obtained a negative result on a Pre-Event Test taken in the past 24 hours before the expected end of the event.

 

Backstage Restrictions

 

A maximum of 30 performers and crew are allowed on stage and backstage at any given time. This includes a maximum of 10 performers who can be unmasked at any given time.

 

Of the 10 unmasked performers, no more than 2 may sing or play instruments that require intentional expulsion of air (e.g., wind instruments), at any given time. If all performers and crew are either: (i) fully vaccinated; (ii) recovered from COVID-19; or (iii) have obtained a negative result on a Pre-Event Test taken in the past 24 hours before the expected end of the event, all 10 unmasked performers may sing and play instruments that require intentional expulsion of air. 

 

Bottom line is it is very hard for the producers, venue owners and performers to deliver a top-class production.

 

And they still must make sure they follow the correct procedures for the audiences as well.

 

Pity the Phantom of the Opera is not returning, as at least the Phantom would be wearing a mask at all times!!!

 

Meanwhile all we can do is keep fingers crossed and hopefully in the next six months the major concert acts will start to return to Singapore too.