Coronavirus: Portsmouth theatres announce closures and cancellations after PM's plea to 'avoid' them

The advice from prime minister Boris Johnson on Monday prompted anger across the arts sector as he chose not to implement forced closures.

Venue chiefs say the move has left them unable to make insurance claims to claw back losses, because they have the legal choice to stay open.

The Kings Theatre in Southsea today declared its own stance by announcing all its performances would be cancelled until May 1.

A gala night on Sunday had been scheduled to welcome Only Fools and Horses star John Challis, among others, to fundraise for the theatre's £3m regeneration.

A spokesman said: ‘Like many in our industry today, as both an unsubsidised venue and a charity this will impact on us greatly.

‘If you are in a position to support us, and we understand not everyone can, by donating the cost of your ticket, that would be hugely appreciated.’

The New Theatre Royal announced similar measures, opting to close its doors for at least 14 days with the promise of ‘ongoing’ reviews as further government advice is announced.

Richard Stride, artistic director of the Groundlings Theatre in Portsea, warned Mr Johnson was 'forcing people into bankruptcy’ with his stance.

He said: ‘The fact is, people aren’t going to go anywhere and venues like ours are taking a lot of flak by staying open. I am fuming.’

Mr Stride said the Kent Street venue’s Saturday clothes sale will go ahead, between 10am and 5pm, but visitors will be allowed in 10 at a time.

Additionally, Mr Stride said the theatre's tours and drama school lessons are to be carried out online when a 'virtual lockdown’ begins on Monday.

He said: ‘We are having to be really creative about this. We’re even thinking about doing drive-in theatre shows in our car park so visitors don’t even need to get out of their vehicles. Talks on that are ongoing.’

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The Spring Arts and Heritage Centre in Havant said it will close until April 4, when week-by-week rolling cancellation plans will be drawn up.

Its staff are set to take ‘significant pay cuts' but will be paid, a spokeswoman confirmed, as the venue said it was 'so sorry' to have to close.

The Titchfield Festival Theatre has also announced a closure ‘until further notice’.

The Portsmouth Guildhall has not announced a full closure, but said in a statement: ‘It is likely that many shows for the foreseeable future will be postponed. Customers should check our website for further details.’

Guildhall shows Riverdance and The Boys are Back Tour have already been postponed by promoters and performances.

The Wedgewood Rooms said it would announce a plan by the end of Wednesday, March 18, subject to the latest government advice.

The Soberton Players’ committee also confirmed its production of Ladies Down Under has been postponed until March 25-27, 2021.

Coronavirus: the facts – from the NHS and the World Health Organisation

What is coronavirus?

COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that can affect lungs and airways. It is caused by a virus called coronavirus.

What caused coronavirus?

The outbreak started in Wuhan in China in December 2019 and it is thought that the virus, like others of its kind, has come from animals.

How is it spread?

As this is such a new illness, experts still aren’t sure how it is spread. But similar viruses are spread in cough droplets.

Therefore covering your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing, and disposing of used tissues straight away is advised.

Viruses like coronavirus cannot live outside the body for very long.

What are the symptoms?

The NHS states that the symptoms are: a dry cough, high temperature and shortness of breath – but these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have the illness.

Look out for flu-like symptoms, such as aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose and a sore throat.

It’s important to remember that some people may become infected but won’t develop any symptoms or feel unwell.

What precautions can be taken?

Washing your hands with soap and water thoroughly.

The NHS also advises to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze; put used tissues in the bin immediately and try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell.

Also avoiding touching eyes, nose and mouth unless your hands are clean.