Sydney Theatre Restrictions

The big theatre re-opening in Sydney is under threat, due to the outbreak of COVID-19 on the northern beaches.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian announced today that until Wednesday evening, December 23, 2020, no indoor hospitality venues can have more than 300 patrons.

The State is also reverting to the one person for every four-square metre rule and restrictions on singing have been re-introduced.

This follows confirmation that 30 people contracted COVID-19 on Saturday, and a further 15 on Sunday through community transmission.

The Premier said an announcement will be made on Wednesday about what rules will apply in the week after Christmas and beyond.

The big musicals which re-opened in recent weeks, Pippin and Frozen, remain open under a separate health order which enforces social distancing and the compulsory wearing of masks inside the theatres.

Graeme Kearns, the Chief Executive of Foundation Theatres, told Stage Whispers that details of any new public health order have not been released yet.

The first announced cancellation is the dance spectacular Magic Mike Live. The following statement has been released.

“In accordance with the public health order issued today by the NSW Government, we regret that we are forced to cancel the opening night performances of Magic Mike Live today, Sunday, 20 December.  The order prohibits gatherings over 300, which specifically impacts our two opening night shows and related events.

"While this is certainly sad for our cast, crew and valued guests, we truly believe that this will all be behind us shortly.  Bringing this show and unbelievable venue to Australia has been the dream of a lifetime for the entire Magic Mike Live team and we know we will all get through this challenging time together. 

"In the coming days we will work to find an appropriate time to make sure all audiences have an opportunity to experience this incredible production of Magic Mike Live.  We will be here in Sydney through May and we encourage everyone to please continue to support both Magic Mike Live and everyone in the live entertainment industry in the coming weeks and months."