Harlow Theatre Company
On 16th March 2020 the UK Government and the Chief Medical Officer announced a series of stringent measures and restrictions designed to slow the rapid spread of coronavirus in the UK
The measures include a 14-day isolation for all households with symptoms, an end to all mass gatherings and, perhaps most challenging of all, an end to “non-essential” contact, including trips to pubs, clubs, theatres and other social gathering places until advised.
HTC’s policy is to urge its members to continue to take every personal precaution to avoid infection and to encourage compliance and support for the efforts to combat this pandemic. The Old Vic and The Institute of Contemporary Arts are among the latest arts institutions to add their names to the list of theatres and organisations who have closed their doors until further notice.
Whilst individual members’ responses may vary, HTC will not be party to any activities which may unwittingly encourage its members to act other than in accordance with the advice and restrictions laid down.
As a consequence, Harlow Theatre Company will suspend all its activities including rehearsal, performance, social, meetings and project work with immediate effect until further notice. This is done in conjunction with the Victoria Hall Performing Arts Association who last evening announced the immediate closure of the Victoria Hall Theatre, HTC’s main performing venue.
The upcoming productions of Abigail’s Party, Nell Gwynn and Wyrd Sisters are therefore postponed indefinitely, but not cancelled.
We have a long list of loyal members and supporters and a growing audience base that continue to support us.To all of you I wish good health and resilience in dealing with this challenge and look forward to the time when we can pick up our association again.
Barry Bowen
Chairman
Harlow Theatre Company