Equity calls for mandatory masking

Venues and producers should enforce mask wearing for audiences, performers' union Equity says.

A joint statement from President Maureen Beattie and General Secretary Paul Fleming, released before the Government's Plan B was put into effect, responds to rising cases of the Omicron variant that threaten future restrictions on live performance.

It has been agreed by the union's council.

"The joy and togetherness of live performance is sorely needed in a dark winter after a tumultuous two years, and it’s critical that the industry is protected," the statement reads.

"Producers and venues must up the ante on the enforcement of mask wearing for audiences and maintain the strongest Covid protocols backstage to protect all those watching and working in live performance.
 
"Theatre, variety, and live performance has been shown across the world to be safe when everyone plays their part in reducing transmission, both in taking responsibility and in enforcing proportionate rules.”