Seeing it Safely – how we are working to keep our audiences safe

With 20 days to go until our production of Musical Memory Lane opens at the Compass Theatre, we know that for some, the idea of returning to the theatre may feel daunting. With that in mind, we wanted to take the opportunity to tell you about the steps that both Pastiche and The Compass are taking to ensure that you are able to see the show safely.

It was impossible this time two years ago to think that theatres could be closed for months (and in some cases, years). It goes without saying that the pandemic hit theatre, from huge venues in the West End to smaller theatres like the Compass, extremely hard.  Thankfully, our theatres are back open and appear to be in a much better place than even a few months ago.

As with so many other sectors, theatres and theatre companies have had to adapt to a new way of working, with our audiences at the forefront of these changes to ensure we do everything as much as possible to make your visit to the theatre as safe as it can be.

The Compass Theatre have been accredited by the Society of London Theatre’s See It Safely programme. The See It Safely programme was created as a response to the pandemic when theatres have been permitted to reopen and is a hallmark that the Compass have (and continue) to take steps to keep their patrons as safe as possible. This will include things like making sure ventilation is increased, areas are kept clean and where possible, audiences are spread out in areas such as the foyer. In the Compass Auditorium, some of the external doors may be opened before the performance and during the interval to help with air circulation.

Pastiche will also be playing its part in ensuring that coming to see our show is as safe as it can be for all that come to see us. You’ll now be able to buy programmes, raffle tickets and give to the traditional bucket collection at the end of the show using a card, Apple Pay and Google Pay using our new contactless payment method. We’ll also have face coverings available for you if you decide that you’d rather wear one during your visit to the Compass and Hand Sanitiser will be available throughout the theatre.

All of our company will be testing every day during production week so we play our part in ensuring that everyone involved with the show (our Cast, Crew, Musicians and Front of House team) are doing their bit to try and prevent the spread.

We hope that the steps that both the Compass and Pastiche are taking give you assurance that we are doing everything possible to ensure your visit to Musical Memory Lane is as safe as possible. We’re looking forward to being back on stage and most importantly, we are looking forward to welcoming back our audiences after such a long time away from you.