| There are recent surveys that show only about 30% of theatergoers are very likely to return immediately and almost as many who are very unlikely. The data also show that almost 1 in 2 will wait several moths or more before returning. On top of the survey data, there is increased talk about wave two of the virus in the fall or winter. This suggests theater audiences will be down. The poor economy is a supporting reason people won't pay to go to the theater. The leading one is concerns about their health. To go back, the survey says, most would wait for a vaccine. But there are things the data suggest that could impact the decision including disinfecting theaters before each performance, having hand sanitizers available, socially distanced seating, and masks available. While socially distanced seating (say, every other seat) seems financially not possible, if only about half the usual size audience returns, it could be possible initially (more so at non-profits than Broadway). Despite the health risks, the data also say that price could get people out, so I agree that "welcome back to the theater" pricing might be necessary. While we all know the joys of live performance, I think theaters are going to have to reinvent themselves, possibly selling filmed versions of the shows they would typically produce for a live audience. Maybe just in the short time but maybe longer, who knows at this point. |
