Scarborough set for economy boost as Open Air Theatre shows return
There will be safety measures in place with entry requirements for people.
Tonight sees the first show of the summer season at Scarborough Open Air Theatre.
Safety measures have been put in place and people are being asked to abide by entry requirements.
The venue will be welcoming Stereophonics for a sold-out headline show.
Peter Taylor from Cuffe and Taylor, promoters of Scarborough Open Air Theatre, said:
"It's been 18 months since lockdown but it's been two years since we've had any live music at Scarborough Open Air Theatre so this is a triumphant return tonight. We're making sure it's nice and safe and we're outside in the glorious Scarborough seaside. It's a long overdue much-awaited return.
"People will have to show proof of two vaccinations, or show proof of a lateral flow test within the last 24 hours, or to show proof of natural immunity if they've had Covid-19 in the last 180 days following their isolation periods, so one of those three on the NHS app or GP app.
"We're putting that in place just to make it safe of course but also to give people confidence. I think people are a bit wary of coming out, big crowds and not only that, but all of artists, crew and backstage staff are taking daily tests as well so we've got to make sure that everybody is safe.
"We've done some research in the past and we estimate that everytime there's a gig that's played at the Open Air Theatre, we bring about £750,000 into the local economy so it's huge. All the bed and breakfasts are full and we know that from everybody that's being trying to get accomodation like artists, management and crew.
"The resort's busy already and it's a booming year this year, but in pervious years the Open Air Theatre has been a key driver to the tourism offering in Scarborough. So the fish and chip shops, the restaurants, the taxi drivers, the buses are busy but it's great because it adds something different to the seaside town".
Cllr Steve Siddons, Leader of Scarborough Borough Council, said:
“Scarborough's Open Air Theatre is a jewel in the crown of the Yorkshire coast and it's fantastic that the venue is able to open once again as Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
“The theatre welcomes some of the biggest names in music which attracts people from across the country. This provides a significant boost to our tourist economy, supports jobs across the borough and provides income for many local businesses.”
Welcome to Yorkshire Chief Executive James Mason said:
“It’s fantastic news that live entertainment is back and Scarborough Open Air Theatre is the perfect, picturesque place to host some of the world’s biggest acts and bands, in a spectacular seaside setting.
“The wonderful weather and the lifting of lockdown has seen a real surge in tourism businesses reopening, recovering and rebuilding, something Welcome to Yorkshire is supporting, in a sector that pre-pandemic was worth £9bn to the county’s economy and employed almost 225,000 people.
“I’m looking forward to seeing Stereophonics, and the roll call of internationally renowned rock and pop artists heading to Scarborough during the coming months is as impressive this year as ever. A great excuse to get your Handbags and Gladrags on and Have A Nice Day!”
Stereophonics will be followed at Scarborough OAT by the likes of Duran Duran, Anne-Marie, Courteeners, Snow Patrol, Keane and Olly Murs, plus many more.
There is information here: www.scarboroughopenairtheatre.com