| By: Lucy D’Elia | April 23 2021|
COVID-19 has caused countless problems to say the least. Unfortunately, this includes causing many to lose their livelihoods and turn to another source of income. One such profession is the arts, specifically live theatre. Theatre lives off of audience members, not only for pay, but also through energy. Theatre is an exchange: actors give an audience characters and a story, and the audience returns laughter, tears and gasps of amazement. This deep connection shared by actors and audience members alike is irreplaceable. However, as with many things in the pandemic, we have had to make due, but how?
While theatres are unable to hold live performances, many have begun streaming them online, either for free or for very little cost. As this brings in very little or no money, most theatres are doing this out of recognition for our need for art and connection, especially in a time like this.
Our very own Grand Theatre has chosen to stream countless performances. I was lucky enough to catch a performance by Les Sept Doigts de la Main, a circus group based in Montreal. The performance was pre-recorded, free to watch, and far from disappointing. The group used different circus elements to create a story about isolation, loss, and finally love during the pandemic. While incomparable to a live performance, streaming shows have managed to bring back a glimpse of the old excitement and adrenaline of going to the theatre.
I know theatre isn’t for everyone, but humans need connection, which is what makes lockdowns so hard. If theatre really isn’t your thing, reach out to family members, FaceTime a friend or cuddle with a pet. Just remember that this isn’t normal and it’s okay to be struggling. Breathe and take time for yourself. Stay safe, KSS!
If you’re missing theatre or are just really bored at home, check out the Grand’s home page at https://www.kingstongrand.ca/ for more information on upcoming shows. For instance, April 29 at 7:30 pm you can stream for free their Celebration of Dance event!
So true that art and connection is important; it’s so inspiring to see how places like the grand theatre have adapted to make the most of pandemic life.