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Gloucestershire Business News

'Business as usual' at county arts venues...for now

Major arts venues across Gloucestershire are keeping calm and carrying on in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak.

At the Roses Theatre in Tewkesbury, head of marketing Caroline Lawrence said that until they were are told otherwise, it was a case of business as usual.

"It's just an unknown," said Caroline. "We had two sold-out shows over the weekend. No one is going to take the decision to close unless they are made to.

"The problem around here we have isn't the virus, it's the panic."

The Everyman Theatre in Cheltenham this morning had a message on its website saying: "All performances and activities at the Everyman Theatre are currently proceeding as scheduled.

"We are committed to ensuring the health and safety of our staff and guests and are allocating resources to continue this provision based on guidelines and information available from Public Health England and our industry body, UK Theatre.

"Our staff and management team will remain vigilant and responsive to potential changes and evolving guidelines. If there are any changes to the current situation we will make information available here, via our various social feeds and our public facing staff."

The Barn Theatre in Cirencester has released a statement to its supporters from artistic director Iwan Lewis in response to coronavirus.

He said: "We are continuing to follow and monitor official guidance from the UK Government and Public Health England carefully and want to assure you that we have all procedures and precautions in place to support your health and wellbeing while you are here at the theatre.

"Thank you for all your supportive messages including those who have donated their tickets to the theatre, made donations, or expressed an interest to help the theatre through this difficult time. It means so much to us that you share our vision of keeping the Barn at the heart of your community."

The Barn is putting putting additional precautionary measures in place, including ensuring staff are fully educated on prevention methods.

At The Museum of Gloucester, a spokeswoman said: "Things are operating as normal as it stands."

But there have already been some casualties of the coronavirus. Among them is a planned Evening of Art and Jazz at the Dove Gallery in Winchcombe, due to take place this coming Friday.

Although the evening, that was to feature an appearance by vocalist and saxophonist Kim Cypher, has been cancelled, an exhibition featuring the work of Jane Ware and Sue Jolley will go ahead at the gallery as planned, from March 20 to 26.

Jane said: "Unfortunately, due to the coronavirus seriousness changing day by day, we have decided to cancel our 'Evening Event' on Friday. Such a shame, but it's better to be safe than sorry. However, we will be open during the day for the full exhibition week.

"I have put together a 'C-virus safety station' of hand sanitiser, spray and tissues for people to use as they arrive/leave Dove Gallery, and we are operating my mantra of 'please NO handshakes, hugs or kisses, just smiles and happy wishes!"

Jane added: "This virus is having a massive effect on people's social lives, and Kim Cypher has had many gigs cancelled already."

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