Exeter Northcott Theatre closed, temporarily, at midnight on Monday but there is still a lot going on behind the scenes.
As a theatre it is our job to make sure that the show goes on and that audiences and artists have a great time. But we also know that the job of a theatre is to respond to what people and communities need most – right now that’s making sure that everyone has the very best chance of staying well.
Most staff are now following official guidance by working from home as we try to deal with the complicated task of rearranging our programme and contacting our audiences.
Box Office staff are currently contacting anyone who was due to visit us in the immediate future using the contact details they provided. Please note that they are using dedicated mobile phones so you may receive a call from an unfamiliar number.
A list of all the shows that are either cancelled or postponed can be found here.
Visiting companies are talking to us all the time about their shows, in some cases exploring new, creative ways to engage with audiences digitally. We will engage as much as we can with our audiences across Exeter and Devon through the website and social media.
This is a really tough time for artists and theatre makers, many of whom are freelance and will have seen performances and contracts cancelled as tours are thrown into doubt. We will continue to support the local artists we work with through our Exeter Northcott Futures programme, providing help and support.
A confidential national helpline has been set up to help anyone working in the industry.
As a registered charity with more than 90% of our income coming through ticket sales and donations, these are undoubtedly going to be challenging times. That’s why we are asking ticket holders to consider donating the cost of their ticket to the Northcott charity.
At this critical moment for your local theatre, your help really could make a big difference.
We don’t know how soon we will be able to re-open so like many organisations we are involved in a complex planning operation. Management are working hard protect the future of the Northcott so that audiences can still enjoy the very best live entertainment here in Exeter once this crisis has passed.
We’ll keep you informed as we progress. The most up to date information can be found on our website: www.exeternorthcott.co.uk.
The team at the Northcott
