Talented Durham University students are looking forward to the loosening of lockdown restrictions and launching three weeks of Covid safe entertainment for everyone to enjoy. Plans are underway to erect a festival-style marquee on the city’s Racecourse, to host a variety of performing arts events and activities from Saturday 5 – Friday 25 June.
In a year where the performing arts and cultural communities have been devastated by Covid, ‘The Tent on the Racecourse’ marquee will be a hub for celebration and entertainment.
Exciting programme of events
‘The Tent’ will be the venue for a varied programme of events run by student groups from across the University, who are looking forward to welcoming the local community and visitors to enjoy their shows.
The range of performances includes an array of music, from Gospel to Opera, theatre, poetry, dance and Durham University Charity Fashion Show, as well as events for all the family.
Refreshments will be available from a range of range of local eateries on site, and can be ordered online, in advance and collected at the venue. Apart from a handful of University Award ceremonies, all events are open to the general public.
Covid safety
Throughout the pandemic, the health, safety and wellbeing of the wider community has been a priority for the University and so all performances will be held in line with the latest Covid safety guidelines. Audiences can book tickets online and students will be required to show proof of a recent negative Covid test. Visitors will be encouraged to wear masks throughout performances, unless eating or drinking. The venue will be cleaned between each event and marshals will be on hand to help everything run smoothly and safely.
Each of the 20 plus student societies involved, has worked within strict Covid safety guidelines to rehearse and produce their respective shows, with every society appointing a dedicated Covid Safety Officer, allowing them to present a safe performance for the audience to enjoy.
Bringing people together safely
Speaking on behalf of the University, Event Organiser, Kate Barton said, “In an incredibly difficult year for live performance, we are thrilled to be supporting the creation of a pop-up entertainment space this June. We hope to play our part in re-invigorating the performing arts scene in Durham and provide the opportunity for people to enjoy live performances safely again.”
Quentin Sloper, Director of Experience Durham added; “I really hope that we can enjoy these events together as a community. As the city opens up and gradually comes back to life after lockdown, we want to create a sense of celebration, where we can come together safely, meet up with friends and family and be entertained. I know that our students will cherish the opportunity to perform in-person after such a long period.”
Book tickets online
Visit ‘The Tent on the Racecourse’ website for full details and to book tickets online at www.durham.ac.uk/expereince/tent
Further information on the University’s Covid Safety measure for students, staff and the local community, is also available on the University’s website Covid Response webapges