The Webster Memorial Theatre in Arbroath is set to open its doors on 1 October 2021 after being in lockdown for 18 months.
The first weekend of opening will see three nights of entertainment from Idlewild frontman, Roddy Woomble, and Scottish stand-up comedian Janey Godley.
Theatres and live venues in cities, towns and villages across the country have been in darkness throughout the lengthy lockdown, with many having a solitary ‘ghost’ light left on as symbol that although the theatres are empty, they will return. The last act to perform to a live audience at the Webster Memorial Theatre was Giovanni Pernice of Strictly, on Monday 16 March 2020, who is set to return in March next year.
Thanks to funding from Creative Scotland, the Webster Memorial Theatre was able to live stream a successful virtual showcase of local talent back in May 2021 attracting over 750 viewers, with some tuning in from as far afield as Kansas, USA.
Colleagues and customers are super excited to see the curtain raised once again at the Arbroath venue that has been popular with theatre, music and comedy lovers for generations.
Audrey Hood, Theatre and Venues Manager with ANGUSalive said: “We are delighted that the people of Arbroath and beyond can come together again to be inspired and entertained by the amazing talents that are showcased throughout the year at the theatre.
“Live entertainment provides a sense of togetherness in an exciting atmosphere combined with suspense and intrigue. It’s a specific moment in time and place for everyone who attends that will never be repeated making every performance unique.
“Our team will be following Scottish Government guidance to help customers feel safe and comfortable at all times. Despite social distancing no longer being mandatory, we respectfully ask our customers to be mindful of your proximity to others and give people space.”
“We can’t wait to welcome everyone back through the doors of The Webster Memorial Theatre to the fantastic line up we have scheduled for reopening weekend and beyond.”
Lead singer of Scottish Indie band Idlewild, Roddy will perform his first ever show in the town of Arbroath on Friday 1 October 2021. Having established himself as a leading voice in the thriving British contemporary indie folk music scene, he recently took a darker more lo-fi direction held together by his trademark poetic lyrics.
Comedian Janey Godley takes centre stage on Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 October, she said: “I am over the moon the theatre is opening again and I can’t wait to start my tour with you all on the 2 October. Frank open the doors!”
The wearing of face coverings is required within the theatre unless exempt and we are asking customers to use the NHS Scotland Test and Protect app, with the QR code available. Enhanced cleaning will be taking place with particular attention paid to touch points and hand sanitisers will be available on entry and throughout the theatre. The bar will be open at the theatre offering a limited selection of drinks for pre-order only. Customers will be requested to leave in groups at the end of each performance to avoid overcrowding and theatre staff will oversee this.
To cut down on unnecessary contact and potential queues at our box office area, we would encourage customers to buy tickets in advance online. Please check out our website for temporary box office opening hours, which may be subject to change. On performance days our box office will be open one hour prior to performances.
If anyone planning to visit has COVID-19 symptoms, please do not attend and contact the theatre as soon as possible at enquiries@angusalive.scot. If anyone develops Covid-19 symptoms after visiting the theatre please take a test and record the results in the NHS Scotland Test and Protect app.
To find out more about the future line up, Box Office hours and purchase tickets for the Webster Memorial Theatre please visit www.angusalive.scot/whats-on
ANGUSalive
ANGUSalive (SC046133) is the culture, sport and leisure trust for the county of Angus and has been operating since December 2015.
