skip to main content

Unions Call for Exemption for Socially Distanced Theatre

Together with Equity and Bectu, the MU is calling on the government to exempt theatre productions from the Tier 3 regulations and to allow them to open to socially distanced audiences.

Published: 18 December 2020 | 11:46 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:32 PM
Photograph of what appears to be an empty theatre pit set up for musicians, with a drum, double bass and electronic keyboard set out.
Theatre productions across the UK, including the seasonal staple pantomime shows, are facing unprecedented difficulties. Photo credit: Shutterstock

London joined significant proportions of the North of England and the Midlands in Covid Tier 3 on Wednesday.

As a result, West End theatre producers who were brave enough to have re-opened their shows to the public during the pandemic have, once again, been forced to close their doors at a huge cost, both to themselves and to their self-employed musicians, cast and crew.

In addition, theatre productions across the UK, including the seasonal staple pantomime shows, are facing unprecedented difficulties and turning 'dark' during December and January for the first time in living memory.

With rising infection rates across the country, theatre musicians, performers and workers face being left without work – or any alternative financial support – throughout the long winter ahead.

An MU survey of its members conducted during the autumn revealed that almost 40% of respondents did not qualify for either of the Government’s Covid-related financial support schemes.

The decision to close theatres is illogical

MU General Secretary, Horace Trubridge commented on the need for an exemption:

“We believe all necessary safety precautions have been put in place by theatre producers, to avoid transmission of the virus to cast, crew, musicians and audience members.

“Therefore, an exemption should be put in place to allow Covid-secure performances to continue and for our members to return to work.”

MU Executive Committee member, and West End musician, Sarah Williams explained why closing theatres doesn’t make sense:

“The decision to close theatres strikes me as totally illogical. They were all operating at well-below audience capacity, with appropriate social distancing measures in place, without an interval, and I understand they were testing the workforce daily. Musicians, actors and theatre crew must be absolutely devastated.”

Take action now

Whilst many workplaces for musicians remain closed across the UK, it’s vital that the Government invests in musicians.

You can support our call for proper Government support by sharing your story, find out how.

Get MU membership today

From gig players to part-time teachers and professional instrumentalists, MU members can access specialist insurance for musicians. This includes Public Liability, Instrument and Equipment Insurance, Accident Insurance, Tax Investigation Insurance, and Professional Indemnity Insurance for music teachers.

Explore our member services

  • Get public liability insurance for musicians
  • Access expert legal support
  • Be represented in your profession
  • Access expert career advice, resources, and training events
  • Connect, network, and get to know the community of musicians

Learn about all membership benefits

Get MU membership today

Continue reading

Top view of an acoustic violin and pernambuco wood bow on a tabletop.

Save Pernambuco Bows: Write to Your MP Today

The MU is calling on members to take urgent action to protect the future of high-quality bow making and the musicians who rely on it, after a proposal to move pernambuco wood from Appendix II to Appendix I.

Published: 10 July 2025

Read more about Save Pernambuco Bows: Write to Your MP Today
MU Head of ED&I John Shortell, with Regional Officer Simeon Scheuber-Rush and MU delegates, on the main stage in front of a blue screen saying “TUC LGBT+ Workers’ Conference 2025

MU Champions Global LGBTQ+ Rights at TUC Conference

Last week, MU members represented the Union at TUC’s annual LGBT+ Workers' Conference, where a motion was passed unanimously on protecting LGBTQ+ rights globally, the value of ED&I work, and promoting greater awareness of intersectional, LGBTQ+ inclusive health and safety issues.

Published: 08 July 2025

Read more about MU Champions Global LGBTQ+ Rights at TUC Conference
A panel event from last year in a tent. There are four people sat along a table in front of a crowd.

MU Panels and Workshop Confirmed for Tolpuddle Festival 2025

Tolpuddle Martyrs Festival takes place next weekend and we’re pleased to share more details about the MU’s presence at the event – including confirmed panel appearances, a workshop session, and the debut of our brand new union banner in Sunday’s iconic march.

Published: 08 July 2025

Read more about MU Panels and Workshop Confirmed for Tolpuddle Festival 2025
John Shortell wearing a Musicians' Union t-shirt with rainbow logo, holding a flag, during a Pride march in 2023. He is joined by colleagues and other members who are performing as they walk.

MU Head of Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Named in IQ Magazine’s 2025 Queer Pioneers List

The MU congratulates John Shortell, Head of ED&I, on being named one of IQ Magazine’s outstanding queer professionals in the international live music business. John is a driving force for change, and the Union is exceptionally proud to have him working on behalf of musicians.

Published: 03 July 2025

Read more about MU Head of Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Named in IQ Magazine’s 2025 Queer Pioneers List