Hucknall's Lovelace Theate Group cancel annual pantomime due to coronavirus pandemic

Lovelace Theatre Group has been planning to put on a performance in January next year but due to the ongoing restrictions because of Covid-19 the show has now been cancelled.

Jess Wall, Lovelace Theatre Group Publicity Officer, said: “It is with great regret and sadness, that we have to announce that we are unable to perform our annual pantomime which would have been held in January 2021 at the John Godber Centre.

"The groups committee have been working extremely hard behind the scenes on risk assessments and ensuring the safety of the members, but with current guidelines and restrictions it will not be possible this year.

"We are continuing to look at ways that we can keep our members interested in theatre through arranging Zoom workshops in play readings, make-up techniques and dance.”

Mark Spencer MP said: “I’m sorry to hear that the Lovelace Theatre Group’s annual pantomime cannot go ahead. I understand that they have been putting on a pantomime for the last 52 years, which is an incredibly impressive feat, and I know it has been enjoyed by many in the town over the years.

“This is unfortunately the reality of a global pandemic, and in trying to limit the spread of the coronavirus, it does mean that events, such as rehearsals and live ticketed shows are often just not a feasible option at present.

“The Lovelace Theatre Group have been kind enough to invite me to previous performances, and I know that they’re an active part of the town’s arts scene.

“As the group are no doubt aware, the Government has implemented a number of grants, schemes and funds to support businesses and organisations throughout the coronavirus, and I would encourage them to double check the Government’s official website to check what support the group may be entitled to. This information is available at www.gov.uk/coronavirus.”

Coun Phil Rostance said: “While I fully understand the reasons why the group can’t put on their annual pantomime, it’s still a real shame that we won’t have a pantomime from the Lovelace Theatre Group in Hucknall this winter.

“As the local councillor in Hucknall, I’ve enjoyed several performances by the Lovelace Theatre Group over the years. Last summer I went along to their performance of 101 Dalmatians, and in October last year I went to watch One Man, Two Guvnors; both of which were great shows and very enjoyable to watch.

“The pantomime will be greatly missed, it is one of the highlights of our winter calendar. I wish the group all the very best, and I’ll be one of the first in the line when they’re able to return to the stage and perform live again.”

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