Lockdown easing: Sussex venues get ready to reopen
New rules mean there's a lot more you'll be able to do from Monday
As lockdown restrictions are eased, theatres and cinemas across Sussex are welcoming their return with a host of events.
International stars including musicians, comedians and entertainers, as well as community artists, are all raring to go, as the easing of the Government's Coronavirus restrictions will see indoor entertainment venues across Adur and Worthing opening their doors once more.
Among the venues opening are Worthing Museum, theatres such as the Connaught and the Pavilion, the Dome Cinema and the Ropetackle Arts Centre in Shoreham.
Organisers have been working hard to ensure their Spring and Summer programmes are jam-packed and include something for everyone.
At the Pavilion Theatre on Wednesday, Britain's Got Talent finalist and comedian Daliso Chaponda will be performing his perfectly-timed Apocalypse Not Now show (on the WTAM website).
The Connaught Theatre is hosting The War of The Worlds (on the WTAM website) - Rhum and Clay's contemporary reimagining of H.G. Wells' novel and Orson Welles' science fiction thriller, presented in partnership with Brighton Festival.
And at The Dome, in-person screenings are being resumed after the 'Dome From Home' programme which saw would-be cinemagoers watching films and documentaries online.
On Monday the cinema is kicking off with eight showings, including Peter Rabbit, Nomadland and Sound of Metal.
Councillor Dr. Heather Mercer, Worthing Borough Council's Executive Member for Customer Services, added:
“Culture is more important to our town than ever before, and I am so pleased the much-loved arts and entertainment venues across Worthing can welcome visitors back.
“The high-quality events these establishments host are not only enjoyable and informative, they draw visitors in from far and wide, contributing to the wider economy of the town.”
There are also plenty of opportunities for those who want to enjoy culture while outdoors.
The Council-owned Colonnade House is showing three new exhibitions this month, including a nature exhibition by wildlife and landscape artist Cate Woods, from 25th to 29th May 2021.
Those walking along the seafront will be able to browse the new open-air exhibition at the The Seafront Gallery. The latest exhibition, launching on Monday, is a photography display titled 'A Winter's Swim' by Jonathan Browning, which explores the rise of sea swimming during the pandemic.
Over in Adur the Ropetackle has a packed summer programme of blockbuster films, short stories, musical performances and more.
Councillor Neil Parkin, Leader of Adur District Council, said:
“After an incredibly difficult few months for our indoor culture and entertainment venues, step three of the roadmap out of lockdown will provide a much-needed boost for these businesses, which can finally open their doors after months of preparation.
“I urge our residents and visitors to play their part and enjoy the events on offer safely, while adhering to the Coronavirus guidelines put in place by the venues.”