Theatres Can Reopen Without ‘Vaccine Passports’

The Prime Minister Boris Johnson confirmed that COVID-19 testing or immunisation status certification, commonly referred to as ‘vaccine passports,’ may not be necessary to attend events at venues like theatres if social distancing is observed.

The Prime Minister confirmed that audiences would be allowed to gain entry without any form of vaccine or test confirmation at least until 21 June. After this date, it is expected that theatres will be able to operate without these contingencies in place.

However, the UK Government’s road map out of lockdown makes clear that vaccine passports may become commonplace in the future. The road map document states “COVID-status certification is likely to become a feature of our lives until the threat from the pandemic recedes.

“[Certification may] play a role in settings such as theatres, nightclubs, and mass events… to help manage risks where large numbers of people are brought together in close proximity.”

Any kind of certification would be able to show whether the user has had a recent negative COVID-19 test, has received their vaccine, or has tested positive for COVID-19 within the last six months and therefore possesses some built-up immunity. It is hoped that this would allow audience members to mingle and venues to reopen at full capacity.

Theatres are able open from 17 May, as part of step 3 of the road map out of lockdown. Theatre performances may also be included in future events of pilot risk mitigation trials from the end of May.

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Originally published at https://www.indiependent.co.uk on April 7, 2021.