'The show must go on': Dorset theatre companies adapt to restrictions
Two Dorset theatre production companies are adapting to coronavirus restrictions during the pandemic.
Last updated 18th Oct 2020
'The show must go on', that's the cry from two of Dorset's theatre production companies who have joined forces to create new ways to reach audiences.
They're putting on a new scare attraction at the Nothe Fort in Weymouth this October called 'SURVIVAL ZONE' which is adapted to the current coronavirus restrictions.
Made to Measure, the company behind Weymouth Pavilion's much-loved pantomimes, have joined up with The Twins FX, an internationally renowned effects company based in Wareham.
They say the industry can't survive another 6 months of closures and limited capacities - even if the buildings themselves are saved - and instead are turning the tide by creating new ways to reach their audiences.
The SURVIVAL ZONE will premiere this month and features live actors with facial masks cleverly worked into their costumes in order to make the even as immersive as possible.
But, while the industry adapts in these ways, both organisations say the government isn't doing enough to protect theatres.
The government put together a £1.57b financial support package for the Arts Sector, but both groups say it's unlikely much of that funding will reach freelance performers and other staff.
Gary Hardy-Brown, Managing Director at TheTwinsFX said:
"It's been very hard for us all over the last 7 months. The Arts sector is in crisis; our company has been hibernating after 15 years of worldwide business - it has been heart breaking.
"Coming into work is never boring or a chore because we genuinely love what we do, so bringing our team back from furlough has been great. It has given us hope and shown us that there is light at the end of the tunnel.
"We have been like a crack team of Zombies working on Survival Zone. We are a one stop shop and we do everything ourselves: designing, creating/building and delivering the wow factor.”
Lee Redwood, from Made to Measure Productions added:
“It’s been a tough year for everyone, but particularly those whose business, income and survival relies on gatherings of large groups of people.
"As Government Funding was almost non-existent for our sector, Made to Measure Productions has been forced to diversify during 2020 in order to survive, exploring various alternative means of providing entertainment to the public just when they need it most.
"Following our hugely successful outdoor production of Pirates of the Pavilion at Nothe Fort this summer, we are delighted to be returning to the venue with a very different production this October! In addition, we’re still planning our two Christmas productions in Wimborne & Weymouth, which are the only two professional pantomimes to be going ahead in Dorset this year, and hoping that locals will continue to support the entertainment industry in these horrifically difficult times.”