Manchester's Hope Mill Theatre has announced rescheduled dates for its production of RENT, directed by Luke Sheppard, which was due to open in July.
Perhaps optimistically – since the government has said nothing about theatres reopening and they are widely expected to be one of the last groups of public spaces that might – Hope Mill bosses have set the new run for Friday, October 30 to December 13.
Directors say the show will go ahead only if it is safe to do so - so the announcement effectively comes with a big “fingers crossed” caveat.
Audience members who have booked for the July run have been contacted about exchanging tickets or receiving refunds.
Hope Mill executive director William Whelton explained: “It’s unknown whether we will be able to open later this year, but we are staying hopeful and positive.
“As such, we continue to look ahead and make plans. If we can reopen, it is vital we have content to present – and I know this will be an incredible production.
“If we feel at any point that it is not safe or economic to reopen then we will review this decision. It would also be irresponsible for us to not anticipate a further postponement of this production in the current climate.”
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