After a period of taking precautionary measures to reduce the risk of transmission of the coronavirus, including limiting their audience to 40% capacity, the Keswick Alhambra closed its doors on Tuesday 17th March, following government advice that people should avoid pubs, clubs, theatres and other such venues. The Royal Opera cancelled all concerts and events just 24 hours before the performance of Fidelio was due to be live-streamed to Alhambra and cinemas across the world that evening.
“This is obviously a terrible blow.” said Carol, co-owner of the cinema, “but we do understand the imperative to prioritise the ability of our health services to cope with this immense challenge by slowing the rate and spread of the virus through limiting all social activity. We have no idea how long we may have to remain closed for.”
Husband and co-owner Alan indicated that many customers had offered to waive refunds, to help mitigate the financial impact on the cinema, for which the Alhambra is extremely grateful, “and we very much look forward to welcoming you through our doors again as soon as the risk lessens enough for us to re-open.”
