Tasmanian Government called upon to re-assess COVID-19 restrictions for theatre sector

March 15, 2021

The Tasmanian Government is being called upon to re-assess its COVID-19 restrictions for the struggling theatre industry.

Tasmanian Shadow Minister for the Arts and Creative Industries Jen Butler said Tasmania’s theatre restrictions were stricter than any other state and other local entertainment sectors already have less strict guidelines.

As part of the ‘Framework for COVID-19 Safe Events and Activities in Tasmania’ introduced late last year, theatre and cinema capacity limits were able to increase to 75% capacity, up to a maximum of 250 people.

Effective from 1^st February 2021, Tasmania's larger entertainment venues were able to apply for an increased venue capacity up to 75% above 250 people.

Shadow Minister Butler notes “Tasmania’s theatre industry has been one of the worst industries affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet despite this, the Government are treating the industry worse than any other.

“Queensland theatres have been at 100% capacity for months and other states have well and truly opened up yet Tasmania is unfairly stuck with more restrictive rules.

“Arts Minister Elise Archer simply isn’t listening and now is the time to bring the curtains up and help rebuild our valuable theatre industry.

“The local industry has been given no real explanation as to why they remain under such tight restrictions, especially when other local entertainment industries have been able to open up.

“Elise Archer must explain why Tasmania’s health advice differs so much from other states and why our theatre industry is being so unfairly treated.”

Tasmanian Minister for the Arts, Elise Archer has previously advised that the “Tasmanian Government, along with Public Health, will work closely with venues to ensure as many Tasmanians as possible can enjoy our local productions and events in a COVID-19 safe way.”

For more information on capacity guidelines for Tasmania Venues go to www.business.tas.gov.au/eventsframework

Image: Tasmanian Theatre Royal

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